Positive Narration vs. Academic Narration

Directions and corrections

Encouragement and praise

Academic talk and thinking

A mix of everything

Reinforces expectations

Builds momentum

Creates a calm, consistent classroom climate

Models how to think, not just what to do

I see Jamal tracking the speaker and taking notes.

I notice Jordan used evidence from the text to backup her claim.

Three tables already have materials out — love that readiness!

I see several students underlining key words before solving.

Narrate early and often

Be specific, not generic

Focus on the one off-task student

Layer it with nonverbal praise