Tip # 5 For Bible Class Teachers

MAXIMIZING CLASS PARTICIPATION

Charles loved to hear himself talk. He would often share a story in class about something he had experienced that week, and it may or may not have been relevant to the discussion. Once he started talking, he was like a hurtling freight train…he couldn’t be stopped!

Some students are quiet and don’t enjoy public participation. Others will monopolize the entire class time if given the opportunity. It is good for class members to participate, but it is NOT good to force them or shame them into participating. Neither is it helpful to the class to have one person do all of the talking. Here are some ways class members can be encouraged to participate without being embarrassed:

• Ask questions that spark discussion
• Have them bring snacks
• Ask them to read out loud a numbered verse pre-written on cards which have been distributed prior to class
• Ask them to share a prayer request
• Have them share a musical number (if so gifted)
• Have them share a personal testimony (pre-arranged)
• Give them a class “officer” position (more about this next time)
• Have someone type prayer requests and send them to a class e-mail list
• Have someone make sure each member has a name tag
• Class set up (including sound system if necessary)
• Class clean up

It is important to give as many people as possible a class responsibility without putting anyone on the spot or embarrassing anyone. As the individuals in the class develop a greater degree of spiritual maturity they will be more willing to assume a more vocal role in the class.