Walk and Talk

Paired walking discussions for movement and reflection

10–25 min10–36 studentsWalking path: hallway, outdoor area, or clear loop in classroom

At a Glance

Duration

10–25 min

Group Size

10–36 students

Space Setup

Walking path: hallway, outdoor area, or clear loop in classroom

Materials

Discussion prompt cards
Optional: clipboard and notes sheet
Partner rotation plan

Bloom's Taxonomy

UnderstandAnalyze

SEL Competencies

Relationship SkillsSelf-Awareness

What is Walk and Talk?

Walk and Talk is an active learning strategy where students engage in academic discourse while walking in pairs or small groups, leveraging the physiological link between physical movement and cognitive processing. By removing the constraints of a traditional desk-bound environment, this method increases blood flow to the brain, reduces cortisol levels, and fosters a more relaxed, collaborative atmosphere for peer-to-peer exchange. It works because low-intensity aerobic activity, such as walking, has been shown to enhance divergent thinking and executive function, making it particularly effective for brainstorming, reflection, and synthesizing complex concepts. Beyond the cognitive benefits, it serves as a powerful tool for social and emotional learning by breaking down social barriers and encouraging more natural, fluid communication. Teachers can use it as a formative assessment tool or a transition activity to re-energize students during long instructional blocks. This methodology transforms passive listening into active, embodied learning, ensuring that students remain physically and mentally engaged with the curriculum while developing essential communication skills in a dynamic, real-world context.

Ideal for

Processing heavy or emotional contentEnergizing an afternoon classBuilding peer relationshipsReflective conversations

When to Use It

Grade Bands

K-2 ✓3-5 ★6-8 ★9-12 ★

Subject Fit

Math ✓ELA ★Science ★Social Studies ★SEL ★Arts ✓

How to Run a Walk and Talk

Prepare the Prompts

Develop 2-3 open-ended discussion questions that require synthesis or reflection rather than simple factual recall.

Define the Route

Identify a safe, circular path in the classroom, hallway, or outdoor area that allows for continuous movement without bottlenecks.

Assign Partners

Pair students using a quick method like 'clock buddies' or random assignment to ensure they interact with diverse perspectives.

Set Expectations

Explicitly model the appropriate volume, pace of walking, and the requirement to stay on the assigned academic topic.

Initiate the Walk

Provide the first prompt and signal the start of the walk, circulating among students to monitor engagement and provide scaffolding.

Rotate and Reflect

Use a signal to have students switch partners or prompts halfway through the allotted time to broaden the discourse.

Conduct a Debrief

Bring the class back to a seated position and have pairs share one 'golden nugget' or key insight from their conversation.

Research Evidence

Oppezzo, M., Schwartz, D. L.

2014 · Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 40(4), 1142–1152

Walking significantly increased creative output and divergent thinking by an average of 60% compared to sitting, with effects persisting even after the person sat back down.

Mullender-Wijnsma, M. J., Hartman, E., de Greeff, J. W., Bosker, R. J., Doolaard, S., Visscher, C.

2016 · Pediatrics, 137(3), e20152743

Students participating in physically active lessons showed significantly greater gains in mathematics and spelling scores compared to a sedentary control group over a two-year period.

Fenesi, B., Lucibello, K., Kim, J. A., Heisz, J. J.

2018 · Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 30(1), 50-62

Short bouts of light-to-moderate physical activity, such as walking, improve memory consolidation and information retention by increasing neurotrophic factors in the brain.

Topics That Work Well With Walk and Talk

Browse curriculum topics where Walk and Talk is a suggested active learning strategy.

Exam Wellbeing and Strategy

Year 11 · History

Pilgrimage and The Canterbury Tales

Year 7 · History

Counting and Quantities

Year 3 · Modern Foreign Languages

At Home

Year 3 · Modern Foreign Languages

Likes and Dislikes

Year 4 · Modern Foreign Languages

Wild and Domestic Animals

Year 4 · Modern Foreign Languages

Sports and Active Leisure

Year 5 · Modern Foreign Languages

The School Timetable

Year 6 · Modern Foreign Languages

Weather and Seasons

Year 6 · Modern Foreign Languages

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage classroom behavior during a Walk and Talk?

Establish clear boundaries and a specific route before students begin moving. Use a distinct auditory signal, like a whistle or bell, to indicate when it is time to switch partners or return to their seats.

What are the benefits of Walk and Talk for students?

This strategy improves cognitive function and creativity by increasing oxygen flow to the brain during physical movement. It also reduces student anxiety and builds social and emotional skills through informal, peer-to-peer academic dialogue.

How can I assess student learning during a Walk and Talk activity?

Circulate among the pairs to eavesdrop on conversations and take anecdotal notes on student understanding. Follow up the walk with a brief 'exit ticket' or a whole-class share-out to solidify the concepts discussed.

Is Walk and Talk effective for students with disabilities?

Yes, it provides a necessary sensory break for students with ADHD and can be easily adapted for students with mobility aids by focusing on the 'talk' and social proximity. Ensure the walking path is accessible and inclusive for all learners in the group.

How long should a Walk and Talk session last?

Sessions should ideally last between 5 to 10 minutes to maintain focus without causing fatigue. This duration is sufficient for students to address 1-3 targeted prompts while keeping the energy level high.

Generate a Mission with Walk and Talk

Use Flip Education to create a complete Walk and Talk lesson plan, aligned to your curriculum and ready to use in class.

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