Talk Circle 1: Introducing oracy

What you'll learn in this Talk Circle

Introducing Oracy Learning Outcomes

This session introduces learning through and to talk, how different talk contexts require different expectations, and how the Oracy Framework underpins all of this.

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Learning Outcome 1

Learn the key concepts of learning through and to talk

Explore how "learning to talk" develops communication skills and "learning through talk" enhances understanding through dialogue.

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Learning Outcome 2 

Understand the different talk contexts

Understand the difference between exploratory talk, where ideas are developed collaboratively, and presentational talk, focused on clear communication to an audience.

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Learning Outcome 3

Explore how the Oracy Framework supports and shapes classroom talk

The Oracy Framework guides effective communication by breaking it down into cognitive, linguistic, physical, and social-emotional components.

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Step 1

Watch the introduction video

In this video, Amy Gaunt, Director of Strategic Development at Voice 21, walks you through everything you need to know about Talk Circle 1 — how it works, what you'll need, and how to get started. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen existing practice, this first Talk Circle supports facilitators in leading rich professional discussions, using real classroom examples and the Voice 21 Oracy Framework.

Step 2

Download the Talk Circle resources

To get started with Talk Circle 1: Introducing Oracy, download all 6 free resources below. These materials include everything you need to run the session confidently or follow along step by step, whether you're leading or participating.

Download all Talk Circle 1 resources

ZIP File | 6 Documents

  • Talk Circles Implementation Guidance
     PDF Document
  • Talk Circle 1 Introducing Oracy-Facilitator Notes PDF Document
  • Talk Circle 1 Introducing Oracy-Session Handout
         Word Document
  • Talk Circle 1 Introducing Oracy slides PowerPoint Presentation
  • The Oracy Framework Games PDF Document
  • Video Clip Commentary PDF Document
Download all Talk Circle 1 resources

Or download the resources individually

  • Implementation Guidance

     PDF Document
Download

  • Introducing Oracy: Facilitator Notes

     PDF Document
Download

  • Introducing Oracy: Session Handouts

     Word Document
Download

  • Introducing Oracy: Slides

     PowerPoint Presentation
Download

  • Oracy Framework Games

     PDF Document
Download

  • Video Clip Commentary

     PDF Document
Download
Step 3

Follow the lesson slides

To support your facilitation of Talk Circle 1, use the PowerPoint presentation below to guide your session. These slides provide a structured pathway through the core concepts of Oracy, helping you and your colleagues build a shared understanding of oracy's key principles and practices. They include video examples, discussion prompts, and suggested timings to ensure that everyone can engage meaningfully with the material. As a facilitator, refer to the slide notes for talking points and activities, ensuring that all participants can contribute to and reflect on the concepts of learning to talk and learning through talk.

Important Note

For the safety and protection of children, all videos featuring minors are password-protected. Please use the following password to play a video: 0racy$tudyGroup1

 

 

Step 4

Share your feedback with Voice 21

Voice 21 is on a mission to make oracy an ordinary part of every child's education, and we need your help. For the first time, Voice 21 is expanding beyond its Oracy School network to invite more educators, like you, to access and practice high-quality oracy education in your classrooms.

We're always looking for ideas and feedback on how we can improve our resources so please submit your feedback and share your experience with this Talk Circle. Your thoughts will help us refine and enhance this resource for schools everywhere.

Share your feedback on Talk Circle 1
 

FAQ

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Developed by oracy experts at Voice 21, Talk Circles are a set of ready-to-use oracy teacher training materials which can be used to suppose the development of high-quality oracy teaching practice throughout your school.

Each Talk Circle includes everything you need to lead a powerful oracy CPD session including facilitator notes, video clips, handouts, and slides, all designed to spark dialogue and model practical oracy strategies. They’re flexible, editable, and can be adapted to fit your school’s context, priorities, and CPD schedule.

 

Talk Circles are for educators looking to develop oracy in their schools, whether you're just getting started or building on existing practice. They’re designed for use in a range of settings, from whole-school CPD to smaller teams like year groups or subject phases.

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