History often feels distant to students unless they can connect with it personally. Encouraging student voice ensures they see themselves in history, while positive reinforcement motivates them to engage deeply.
To further encourage student voice, incorporate class discussions and Socratic seminars. When studying historical revolutions, allow students to take on roles and debate different perspectives. For example, in a discussion about the American and French Revolutions, students can represent figures like Thomas Jefferson, Robespierre, or common citizens from each era. Through guided debate and discussion, students not only develop critical thinking skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of history.
It’s crucial students see history as an open-ended opportunity to learn about the past in order to interpret the present. There are not always easy answers and it’s important to ask questions not just to answer the question, but to critique responses and build upon one another. As the proverb goes, iron sharpens iron.
Positive reinforcement can also be built into everyday instruction. Recognizing effort rather than just correct answers is key. When students share ideas, acknowledge their contributions by restating their points and expanding on them. Simple strategies like “That’s an interesting perspective; can you tell us more?” or “That’s a great connection to our previous lesson” encourages participation and confidence. The key is to teach the process of thinking about the past and wrong answers are certainly part of that process.
Another way to encourage student voice is through historical inquiry projects. Allow students to explore historical questions that matter to them. For example, they might investigate how propaganda shaped public opinion during wartime or analyze the impact of women in social movements. Letting students lead their own investigations empowers them to become historians rather than just history learners. Even students who study the same topic can walk away with new perspectives and offer new insights that benefit the entire class.
Happy teaching,
Ryan Wagoner The Lyceum of History
“I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well.” ~Alexander the Great
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