Introduction

It’s essential for young learners to develop strong listening skills and stay engaged during group discussions. In this blog post, we will explore a no-prep activity that helps PreK students practice listening, focus on the discussion, and mentally answer questions even if they are not called on. This way, they can improve their understanding and identify areas where they need more help. We will also provide discussion questions, mention related skills, and guide educators on the next steps to access free sample materials.

No-Prep Activity

Introduce the “Silent Answers” activity to your students. During a group discussion, ask students to listen carefully to the questions posed by the teacher and think about their answers silently. Encourage students to focus on the discussion, even if they are not called on to respond. This activity helps students practice their listening skills, stay engaged, and better understand the material.

For example, if the discussion revolves around a story, you can ask questions about the characters, the plot, and how the story made them feel. As students listen to the questions and their classmates’ responses, they can mentally answer the questions themselves, fostering a deeper understanding of the material and promoting active engagement.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important to focus on the discussion even if you’re not called on to answer?
2. How can paying attention during group discussions help you learn better?
3. What are some strategies you can use to stay focused during a group discussion?
4. How can you help your classmates stay engaged during group discussions?
5. What can you do if you find it challenging to stay focused during a discussion?

Related Skills

Besides listening skills and engagement, there are other relevant skills that students can develop to enhance their learning experience. Some of these skills include:

• Active Listening: Encouraging students to listen attentively and respond appropriately to their peers during discussions.
• Self-awareness: Helping students recognize their strengths and areas for improvement in their listening and engagement skills.
• Collaboration: Teaching students to work together and participate effectively in group discussions and activities.
• Self-regulation: Supporting students in managing their emotions and behaviors to remain focused during discussions.

Next Steps

If you’re interested in exploring more activities and resources to help your PreK students develop listening skills and stay engaged during discussions, sign up for free sample materials at Everyday Speech. You’ll find a variety of materials designed to support social-emotional learning and help students build essential life skills.