Great Ideas for Teaching Students (GIFTS)

Great Ideas for Teaching Students (GIFTS) Brian Peterson, MA, EdM, Presenter December 1, 2011 2:00 p.m.

Checking for Understanding: Promoting Efficiency, Inclusion, and Equity in Instructional Time

Rationale:

This two-fold approach aims at creating better efficiency, optimal inclusion, and promoting equity through a systematic, predictable means of calling on students during instructional time to check for understanding. It facilitates better rhythm in class and minimizes a sense of dominance by more confident students and “getting off the hook” or less-engaged learners.

Materials:

Index cards (3” x 5”), pen/pencil White board, 5 dry erase markers

Description/Procedure:

 Before class meeting begins:

1. Create at least five different questions/problems/prompts on white boards

2. Greet students at door and give five “volunteers” a marker to complete one question

3. Review and ask group to verify input at the start of class (focus/review exercise)

4. Write a single student name (first/last) on one note card

5. Complete cards as students enter class, during roll call, small group work, etc.

6. Arrange in a visible stack on front desk or podium

 During instructional session:

7. Draw in sequence when calling on students or posing questions

With appreciation to Denise Minor, PhD (Department of Foreign Languages, California State University, Chico)