ELT365 · Day 234 — Wait Time — The Power of the Pause

Idea

Wait time is the deliberate pause after a teacher question. Extending it beyond three seconds increases both the length and quality of learner responses.

Example

Ask a question, then look around the room in silence. Resist the urge to rephrase. Let the silence do the work.

Try

Set a timer after your next three questions. Do not speak until three seconds have passed. Note the difference in responses.

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