Quotations Add Interest and Lend Authority to Classroom Lessons

Abstract

Quotations yield the greatest insight from the fewest words. In addition to the wisdom and guidance quotations provide, teachers effectively use quotations in displays, presentations, speeches, research, writing prompts, classroom lessons, and discussions. Students employ quotations for speeches, classroom assignments, as sources of inspiration and guidance, and as support for essays—particularly those required for entrance to college. Considering the fast-paced, media culture in which today’s students thrive, adolescents in a hurry embrace a quotation ranging from five to six words to three or four sentences. As a change of pace from textbook passages, short stories, poems, and novels, teachers find it refreshing to use quotations to stimulate thought and focus on the development of communication, thinking, and social skills. Although the lesson strategies outlined in this article use sample quotations most appropriately used in English classes, other subject area teachers, librarians, counselors, and administrators will also find value in many of the strategies.

Keywords:

• Quotes
• quotations
• lessons
• motivation
• classroom strategies
• school climate