How can a teacher best help students who tend to dominate discussions learn to share the floor during conversations?

Setting a timer for each speaker during discussions can be an effective strategy for helping students who dominate conversations learn to share the floor. By implementing a timer, all participants are given equal opportunities to express their thoughts within a predetermined timeframe. This not only encourages those who might typically take up more speaking time to be concise but also prompts quieter students to engage more actively, knowing their turn will come.

This method creates a structured environment where students become more aware of their speaking habits and the importance of allowing others to contribute. As they adapt to this time-constrained format, they may become more mindful of balancing their contributions with those of their peers, fostering a more equitable dialogue.

The other options provide valuable strategies but may not directly address the issue of domination as effectively as using a timer. While encouraging listening without interrupting, assigning roles, or providing discussion guidelines can help create a collaborative atmosphere, they may not have the same immediate impact on controlling the flow of conversation in a mixed group. The timer method directly instills a sense of shared engagement right from the start of the discussion.