How Do I Ensure All Students Are Participating in Class Activities?

Teaching with Valor Podcast: A Veteran Teachers Perspective

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Welcome to another episode of Teaching with Valor, where we explore the questions that challenge us as educators and help one another become the best teachers we can be—one lesson, one day, one student at a time. I’m your host, Don Fessenden, and today, we’re tackling a fundamental issue: How do I ensure all students are participating in class activities?

This is a question that every teacher, at every level, has asked at some point in their career. Whether you’re in an elementary classroom full of curious, energetic students or working with teenagers navigating high school’s pressures, ensuring that every student is actively engaged in classroom activities can be tough. We’ve all had that one student who’s quietly disengaged, or the one who dominates every conversation, while others fade into the background.

The truth is, active participation is vital to the learning process. When students are engaged, they’re more likely to retain information, ask thoughtful questions, and contribute meaningfully to discussions. But fostering that participation—and making sure it’s inclusive—requires intentional planning, creative strategies, and a deep understanding of your students’ needs.
Show Notes
For more information on this topic checkout the following resources:

• Teach Like a Champion by Doug Lemov: Proven techniques for improving participation in the classroom.
• Edutopia – Strategies for Student Engagement: www.edutopia.org - Resources and videos on encouraging student participation and active learning.
• The Socratic Seminar Approach: A guide to leading Socratic discussions in the classroom.
• Kagan Cooperative Learning Strategies: Methods for promoting active participation and collaboration in the classroom.
• Classroom Management for Student Engagement: A collection of strategies for building participation in elementary, middle, and high school settings.

Stay tuned for more episodes, and remember, every student is unique, and every classroom can be a place where all students succeed. Keep teaching with valor!