This book looks at an issue which is at the heart of every classroom - the role that talk plays in children's learning. Drawing on a substantial research base, the book provides useful suggestions to facilitate successful talk between teachers and children to improve learning and raise standards.

Through analysing the talk that goes on in primary school classrooms, the book examines the process of talk and learning in detail and shows how teachers' questions, instructions and statements can support and extend children's learning. It highlights the central influence of teacher talk on...