Talk is a Valuable Instructional Tool

I thought that the magic talk activity was a great way to allow student participation. Students who do not have the confidence to speak up in class can use this activity to say what they want. Of course, magic talk does require students to read what others wrote so that they can respond back. This can help them practice both reading and writing skills. Although speaking can be seen as an important skill for students to develop, other forms of communication should also be encouraged. Writing, reading, sign language, and plays are great ways for students to express their ideas as compared to talking.
I agree that speaking in public is a skill students need to develop, but making them do oral reports is far more stressful than helpful. In this case, students could use props to help them tell their stories such as puppets. To give opportunities for students to speak up in a safe environment can encourage talking. Teachers need to accept the attempts students make to express themselves, no matter what from it takes.