What is Extended Discourse?
Extended discourse refers to sustained, in-depth conversations or written exchanges that go beyond simple question-and-answer interactions. In education, extended discourse is valued for its ability to promote deeper thinking, language development, and conceptual understanding.
Characteristics of extended discourse:
Involves multiple turns in a conversation
Explores topics in greater depth
Encourages elaboration and explanation
Promotes critical thinking and analysis
Supports language and cognitive development
Educators facilitate extended discourse through strategies such as open-ended questioning, collaborative discussions, and extended writing activities. This approach helps students develop more sophisticated communication skills and deeper understanding of complex topics.