Talking Circles
Talking circles and talking sticks are a Native American tradition. Mr. Ellis and Mr. McAllister use the talking circle regularly as part of the learning process; through reflection, the students can process and share what they are learning and experiencing. The talking circle also represents shared responsibility, reinforcing the principles of equal opportunity for participation and equal capacity for contribution.
During circle, all students sit in their designated places. A question or topic is posed, and as the talking stick is passed clockwise around the circle, the student holding the stick responds to the topic or question. Only the person holding the talking stick can talk; all the others are to make eye contact with the person talking and listen to what is being said. When the keeper of the circle lays the talking stick down, no more talking is allowed. If someone breaks a talking circle, he or she is asked to leave the circle.
Recent Circle Topics and Examples of Responses
