Teachers in Tiaras

When asking questions during content presentation, students are often nervous to answer especially if this is their first contact with the information. Try this strategy to get them talking, and to make sure you keep up with their understanding.

At your podium (or desk, or chair, or computer), have a cup with popsicle sticks in it. On each popsicle stick, have a student’s name. When you ask a question, draw a students name from the cup. Then after they answer place the stick with the students name on it in one of three piles: the ones who “get it”, the ones who are still confused, and the ones who give over-the-top, exceptional answers. Make sure you keep these piles concealed from the students, just like you would your grade book. As the day progresses, keep drawing names and refilling the cup with sticks to ensure you ask all students at least one question. The piles of understanding will help you know which students may need extra assistance on independent work, or if a lot of students are still confused you may want to try reteaching the lesson.