Ways to participate
What’s one way to show you’re paying attention without speaking?
Nodding, eye contact, writing notes, G-chat, email, or looking at the teacher.
What could you do if you need help but don’t want to talk?
Raise your hand, write a note, or email.
What’s a low-stress way to practice speaking?
Read one word or short phrase out loud in private.
What can help someone feel calm before speaking?
Deep breathing or practicing before
Practice greeting your teacher — how would you do it?
Wave, nod, or say “hi.”
What’s one way to participate using your hands?
Raising your hand, pointing, or giving a thumbs up/down.
What’s a short phrase you can say to ask for help?
“Can you help me?” or “I don’t understand.”
What’s one way to participate verbally in a small group?
Say one short comment or agree with someone (“yeah,” “me too”).
What can teachers do to make participating easier?
Give more time or let you respond in writing first.
Practice asking to go to the bathroom.
“Can I use the restroom?” or show a note.
What’s one way to participate quietly during a class discussion?
Volunteer answer, whisper to a peer, use a post-it, or write an answer.
What’s a quiet way to get your teacher’s attention?
Raise your hand halfway or wait by their desk.
What could you say to participate in a class discussion?
“I agree,” “I think,” or “I’m not sure but…”
What could someone's body feel like when they are nervous to speak?
Tense, shaky, or quiet.
Practice answering a simple class question (or write it).
➡️ “Yes,” “No,” or short answer.
What’s one nonverbal way to respond to a teacher’s question?
Hold up a card, gesture, or write your answer.
What’s something you can prepare before asking for help?
Practice the question or write keywords on a peice of paper
What’s something you can do before speaking in class?
Take a breath, plan your words, or practice quietly.
What’s one thought that helps you try speaking?
“I can do small steps.” or “It’s okay to be nervous.”
Practice asking for help quietly.
“Can you help me?” or hold up a help card.
What’s one way to share an answer if you’re not ready to speak out loud?
Write it on paper or show your teacher your answer privately.
What’s one step to build confidence asking for help in class?
Start by asking privately or use one rehearsed phrase.
What’s one way to practice talking that feels safe?
Practice with a trusted person or record yourself first or practice with a friend
What’s one success you’ve had in communicating before?
(Student identifies any success — whispering, note, gesture, etc.)
Choose a small participation goal for next time:
① Raise hand once, ② Ask for help, ③ Say one phrase, ④ Write answer to share.
Student chooses one goal visually or verbally.