ABSTRACT
Most native English–speaking students are fluent users of oral language in English by the time they start school. Oral language can and should be a natural, essential part of a balanced and comprehensive literacy program. Students must be taught how, and given the opportunity, to have productive academic conversations. For example, have students converse with their peers as they plan and carry out collaborative projects or conduct writing conferences. Discussions are similar to conversations in several ways. Both involve the use of oral language in an informal setting. Both involve an exploration of an issue or a topic and offer students the opportunity to use a variety of speaking skills. A discussion can be defined as “problem-solving by cooperative thinking.” The goal of any discussion or problem resolution should be to consider a question from many angles, allowing all participants a voice.
