Setting Ground Rules for Student Participation Here are some suggested ground rules that you can consider for your classroom to help the conversation stay focused and civil. (See also Ground Rules for Participating, the version of these rules written for students.) You might also ask student to help formulate a set of rules. We suggest that you write the ground rules on a large sheet of paper, post them where they can be seen, and keep the rules visible during the conversations. The ground rules might include the following: All students will show respect for the views expressed by others. Although a frank exchange of conflicting views can be fruitful, the dialogue will be conducted within the boundaries of a civil conversation. Speakers will be brief. No one will monopolize the conversation. The teacher will ensure that all who wish to speak have a chance to express their views. Comments will be directed to the group as a whole rather than to the teacher. Disagreements will not become personal; name-calling and shouting are not acceptable. Students will not interrupt when others are expressing their views. If needed, the group can establish a mechanism (e.g., raising hands) to enable everyone to speak or respond to someone else's comments. Role of the discussion leader | Determining the conversation topic Keeping discussions going | Finding experts | Using experts as resources Classroom strategies | Setting ground rules for student participation | Closing the conversation