At the beginning of the year, I tape this chart to my students’ tables and teach them to use the hand signals whenever we’re in ‘discussion mode.’ Students who are more timid can contribute without verbalizing, and I can call on them once I see their hand signal. It’s useful for English language learners, too: Our new student from Russia uses them a lot to be part of the discussion. The hand signals are an effective strategy for encouraging all students to participate and be heard. 

—Natalie Sidarous, 4th-grade ELA teacher, PS 1, Staten Island

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