Here are some other “tips” for asking good questions.
Open-ended – Ask open-ended questions, rather than “yes” or “no.” Convergent questions have one answer, but divergent questions encourage students to make new connections and think outside the box.
Acknowledge Responses - Avoid judging answers by repeating their response. “Good thinking!” “That’s close.” “I never thought about that before.” “Kiss your brain!”
Probe – Extend students’ thinking by having them clarify an idea or support an opinion.
Give Time - Help children think about what they want to say and provide for individual differences by asking children to smile if they know the answer. Allow 3-5 seconds of think time.
1-2-3 Tell – Ask a question and then slowly count, “1, 2, 3.” When you say, “Tell,” the children all say the answer.
Whisper & Release – Children whisper the answer in their fists. When the teacher says, “Release,” the students open their fists.
Connections – Demonstrate how to touch index fingers to indicate that they have made a connection in their brain. This will engage children when classmates are answering a question and let you know that they understand.
Now, here’s a question for you! Want to learn more about improving your questioning strategies? Come back tomorrow for another exciting episode!