MAINTAINING DISCUSSION
Control excessive talkers.
Don't let one or two students monopolize the discussion.
1. Do not call on the "talkers" first. Wait to see if someone else raises a hand or volunteers a comment.
2. Solicit responses from the "no talkers." Be alert to nonverbal cues indicating that they have something to say, and then call on them: "Did you want to say something ...... ??? " or , "Let's hear from some of you who haven't said anything yet.
3. Have the class observed by someone (e.g., a student selected from the class), then discuss who is talking, how often, to whom, etc. often this will make both the "talkers" and the "no talkers" modify their behavior.
4. Talk to excessively talkative students outside of class, one-on-one if all else fails. Be careful that a bright conscientious student is not made to feel penalized. You don't want to destroy initiative, creativity, or confidence; you want to ensure that contributions come from all or most members of the class.