Let freedom ring: Using the “Circle of Knowledge” strategy to examine American symbols

With the advent of Common Core standards that focus on speaking and listening, discussion should be a tool in every elementary teacher’s tool belt. As they discuss a topic, elementary students learn not just the content, but also the skills and social norms they need to become contributing members of our society. Discussion helps students to develop better conflict resolution skills, strengthen comprehension, and be active in their own learning. In the lower grades, students should begin learning how to base their opinions on evidence—and also how to listen respectfully to the opinions of their peers