Our oracy formula

Pick a topic

Anything that can be written about can also be talked about! 

Pick whatever’s on your curriculum plan just now, or search our database of topics …

We’ve got a rich set of different activities, from quick starters to formats that can last a whole lesson …

Oracy’s both at the heart of what we’ve always been doing as teachers, and an exciting journey that can last a lifetime.

Our key message is: get your classes listening, thinking and speaking today!

And, if you’d ever like more support, check out our pupil workshops and teacher CPD

Ask and switch

What is ‘ask and switch’?

Ask and switch involves students using cards to prompt short paired discussions

How it works 

This activity needs at least six students and the cards need to be prepared in advance. Each student begins with a different question card. Students pair up and ask each other the questions on their cards. They then switch cards and repeat the process with new partners until the time is up. 

Across the curriculum

This activity is so versatile. It can be used in every subject and for all ages of students (who can read)! The questions can be factual as a way of reviewing learning or checking prior knowledge or they can ask for opinions. Great as a revision activity!