Talk tools: Developing girls' STEM identities through classroom discourse

Both at and outside of school, girls are exposed to biased views about their place in STEM. Teachers can ‘level the playing field’ by creating gender-inclusive classroom environments, but girls often require active support to imagine themselves as ‘STEM people’.

With a conscious focus on classroom talk, teachers can ensure that every lesson actively develops each student’s STEM identity and their positive engagement with STEM.

Educators are well versed in the significance of classroom talk. The use of verbal and non-verbal cues of appreciation, re-direction and recognition are key tools in building positive relationships in and around the classroom, and in fostering internal motivation.

The five approaches

The Talk Tools complement the Classroom strategies for inclusive STEM learning environments, and can be used with any STEM lesson and in any diverse classroom context. 

The tools are embedded within five GiST Talk approaches. Select an approach to read more.

5 GiST Talk approaches

1.  Be interested and enthusiastic about STEM

2.             Foster STEM dispositions and skills

3. Value students' STEM knowledge and experiences

4. Explore the diversity of STEM stories and experiences

5. Demonstrate how STEM knowledges, dispositions and skills are transferable across learning

For each approach, you'll find activities to reflect on your own practice, tools to develop new approaches, and tips to create classroom talk that's motivating and inclusive. 

Use this presentation to share the GiST Talk Tools with your colleagues.