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207EAL in Practice 207 · Speaking

Start with the Object

Place one real object on each table. Learners name what they notice before you introduce the new topic words.

5 min preparation
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01 · Make the thinking visible

Worked model: Start with the Object

Four-step teaching routine for Start with the Object. Full instructions are in Teach it.
  1. 1Place one real object on each table
  2. 2Collect observations before introducing technical labels
  3. 3Connect one observed feature to the relevant subject term
  4. 4Change the object or condition and ask for a new observation using the term
Worked classroom example

Show an ice cube. Learners describe what they can see before you introduce solid, liquid and melting. Ask for the changing state in words after the observation; the object opens the concept before the label.

A model to discuss and adapt to your class.