This video, by Sarah Hillyard, is about empowering students to speak up in English classrooms.
The speaker acknowledges that there are many reasons why students might be hesitant to speak in class, including lack of confidence, fear of being wrong, and unfamiliarity with the language.
Hillyard proposes a number of techniques to create a more positive and engaging language learning environment. One technique she suggests is to create a “culture of sharing” where students feel comfortable expressing themselves, even if it is in their native language at first. This can be done through activities such as the “Share Chair,” where students take turns sitting in a designated chair and sharing something about themselves with the class.
Another technique Hillyard suggests is to provide students with opportunities to speak in pairs or small groups before asking them to speak up in front of the entire class. This can help students to feel more supported and less anxious.
Hillyard also suggests using games and activities to make speaking in English more fun and engaging. For example, she describes an activity where students use picture cards and word cards to create silly sentences. This type of activity can help students to practice using new language in a low-pressure environment.
Overall, Hillyard’s message is that there are many things teachers can do to create a classroom environment where students feel empowered to speak up and express themselves in English. By using a variety of techniques, teachers can help students to overcome their anxieties and become more confident and enthusiastic language learners.
