Aug. 19, 2023 Instructional Strategy: Discussion Frames

Language Objective: I can talk about math concepts using academic language and discussion frames.

Discussion frames: How-To

• Download Instructional Strategy: Discussion Frames
• Download Teaching Math to MLs Instructional Strategy

Before the Activity

• Choose vocabulary words or phrases for the lesson.
• Write a few sentences or questions you would like to hear students use during a discussion.
• Remove key words or phrases to create discussion frames. These frames should allow students to practice using language just beyond their current level of proficiency.
• Translate the discussion frames if needed.
• Decide on student grouping structures (pairs, groups, same-language groups, etc.).

During the Activity

• Model the use of the discussion frames for students.
• Put students in groups or pairs.
• Pose a question or topic that students will discuss.
• Listen to students’ discussions. Encourage all students to use academic language that they have learned in the lesson.

Extra Support for MLs

• Translate frames if needed, but encourage students to use the English vocab they know.
• Create different levels of frames. Students at lower levels of proficiency can use simpler sentences than students at high levels.

Example: Math 7

• LT: I can find the absolute value of a rational number.
• After students practice finding the absolute values of numbers on a number line, provide them with these sentence frames to help them discuss their work:
• The absolute value of ____ is ____ because…
• To find the absolute value of ____, I ____.

Helpful Links to Learn More

• Math Discussion Frames posters in English and Spanish from Carla Johnson 
• Supporting Mathematics Discourse from “Interactive Stem”
• Expanding Sentence Frames by Jane Echevarria