Say It Again, Louder
A student’s answer to a question is too quiet for everyone to hear, so with the technique Say It Again, Louder, you ask them to say this again, but with more volume.
Why use this technique?
Say It Again, Louder can help to make learning more collaborative, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to learn from and with one another.
Example
In a history lesson…
Teacher: ‘What were the key learning points from our last lesson on the Scottish witch trials… [pause] … Louise?’
Louise: [Quietly.] ‘We learned that they started to take place in the 1560s and that about 2500 people were executed.’
Teacher: ‘That’s a good answer. Could you just repeat it so everyone can hear, please?’
Louise: [Louder.] ‘We learned that they started to take place in the 1560s and that about 2500 people were executed.’
Teacher: ‘Thanks, Louise. Right… Robert, could you comment or build on that, please?’
The question–answer exchange continues.
Notes and tips
Ultimately, this is a technique we are aiming to make redundant. We should be aiming to create a culture in which every student knows that they are expected to answer loud enough for everyone to hear. The more we use the technique, the less need there should be for it.
Many students are naturally shy, which we should keep in mind when using this technique. This technique is about coaxing and encouraging louder answers, not pulling them out kicking and screaming. In the longer term, we hope the technique will help build students’ confidence.
Sometimes, students will make changes to their original answer when asked to repeat it louder. If this happens, point out the change and ask the student which of the two they’d like to stick with.
Focused reflection
How well do you currently use this technique?
Is it a technique you will focus on developing?
If so, what are the key features you will focus on (things to do, and not do)?