Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion).

Rules are the hallmark of third grade so breaking them might come with some pretty hefty social penalties. For these reasons, we think your students will want to help you create rules governing class and group discussions. It will help set a standard for the class and alleviate anxiety about how to gain the floor, and it should increase listening and keep everyone following along.