Teacher Commentary
We start off by introducing Think-Write/Pair-Share, a routine we use throughout this unit. The Think-Write time gives students 1-2 minutes to reflect and silently record their ideas. This encourages students to make thinking time a habit and allows all voices to be recorded and documented. The pair time provides an opportunity for students to “try out” their answers in a pair or trio. This oral practice fosters positive or constructive feedback within pairs, and structures support for listening attentively to another person’s ideas. Before students begin talking with their partner, we recommend reviewing classroom norms and expectations for partner talk (e.g. look at the person talking, leaning in to hear them, listen attentively, lower your voice; SOLAR—Silent, Orient (your body toward your partner), Lean in/Listen, Affirm, and Reflect/Respect).