You do not have to say anything , but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned ......
You do not have to say anything , but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned ......
( Or , how to get SMSC , questioning , literacy AND deep thinking in the same learning session )
This activity really makes people think . It also works just as well with post 16 as it does with lower school .
Tell the student ( s ) that they have just been arrested and charged with being an outstanding learner / user / specialist in your area .
Get them to identify and explain 5 bits of evidence that either prove or disprove the charge . Encourage the use of VCOP and reward with time off for good behaviour !
Many students , across the ability range , fear making mistakes and are reluctant to take risks . This includes giving a wrong answer in front of the class , or expressing an idea that is not accepted or valued by their peers . This ‘ peer fear ’ can be a significant barrier to learning .
The fear of making a mistake will reduce the learning potential of question asking . Many studies have found that students ’ willingness to take risks in class reduces as they get older . So , what strategies can we use to help promote a supportive environment in which students offer suggestions and test ideas without fear ?
þ Always thank students for their contribution
þ Ask ‘ How can we find out ?’ Rather than ‘ What is the answer ?’
þ Value mistakes - discuss and recognise their potential for learning and showing progress
þ Create a display of unanswered questions , to which the students are invited to respond
þ Allow time - don ’ t make your students feel rushed .
þ Develop and use nonverbal responses
þ Pose open questions often and point out the possibility of multiple answers
þ Respond to the reasoning behind the response
þ Recognise and appreciate divergent and creative answers
þ Avoid the use of ‘ right ’ and ‘ wrong ’ and ‘ good ’ or ‘ bad ’ in relation to answers wherever possible .
It is useful to create a learning environment as a ‘ blame free ’ zone where making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process . Get the class to agree ground rules for question / answer sessions :
Adapted from ‘ Questioning Technique Pocketbook ’ by Gorden Pope . Available for all staff to look at in the staff section of the library .