Developing Oracy & Communication
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Week 1 – Why Oracy Matters for Learning Across the Curriculum
Oracy is more than simply encouraging pupils to talk—it is about developing the speaking and listening skills that enable them to think, communicate and learn effectively. High-quality classroom talk helps pupils articulate ideas, explore new concepts, deepen understanding and learn from others across every area of the curriculum. In this session, we'll explore why oracy is fundamental to learning and consider practical ways to create classrooms where every pupil has the confidence, vocabulary and opportunity to find their voice.
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Week 2 – Structured Talk in the Classroom (think-pair-share, debates)
Purposeful talk doesn't always happen naturally—it needs to be carefully planned, modelled and structured. Strategies such as think-pair-share, partner discussion and debate give every pupil opportunities to rehearse ideas, listen to others and develop their thinking before contributing more widely. In this session, we'll explore practical ways to embed structured talk throughout lessons, ensuring classroom discussion is inclusive, purposeful and supports deeper learning across the curriculum.
Week 3 – Vocabulary Building Strategies
A rich vocabulary gives pupils the tools they need to understand, communicate and engage successfully with learning across the curriculum. Vocabulary development is most effective when new words are explicitly taught, revisited and used meaningfully in different contexts. In this session, we'll explore practical strategies for introducing, modelling and reinforcing vocabulary, helping every pupil develop the language they need to think, speak and learn with confidence.
Week 4 – Supporting Pupils with Speech, Language and Communication Needs
Strong communication skills are fundamental to learning, relationships and participation in the classroom, yet some pupils may need additional support to develop them. Small, thoughtful adaptations to everyday teaching can make a significant difference to pupils with speech, language and communication needs. In this session, we'll explore practical, inclusive strategies that support understanding, expression and participation, helping every pupil feel confident, included and able to communicate effectively.
Week 5 – Embedding Oracy into Assessment
Oracy can provide a powerful window into pupils’ thinking, revealing understanding that may not always be visible through written work alone. Purposeful talk, questioning and discussion can help teachers identify misconceptions, assess depth of understanding and decide what pupils need next. In this session, we’ll explore practical ways to embed oracy into everyday assessment, ensuring pupils have meaningful opportunities to articulate, explain and demonstrate their learning across the curriculum.
Week 6 – Reflecting on your Classroom Talk Environment
A strong classroom talk environment is one where every pupil feels confident to contribute, listen, question and build on the ideas of others. Creating this culture requires more than providing opportunities to talk—it involves considering whose voices are heard, how discussions are structured and whether talk genuinely supports learning. In this final session, we'll reflect on the key principles explored throughout the series and consider small, purposeful changes that can create a more inclusive, engaging and talk-rich classroom.