<p> Great Ideas for Teaching Students (GIFTS) Brian Peterson, MA, EdM, Presenter December 1, 2011 2:00 p.m.</p><p>Checking for Understanding: Promoting Efficiency, Inclusion, and Equity in Instructional Time</p><p>Rationale:</p><p>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.</p><p>Materials:</p><p>Index cards (3” x 5”), pen/pencil White board, 5 dry erase markers</p><p>Description/Procedure:</p><p> Before class meeting begins:</p><p>1. Create at least five different questions/problems/prompts on white boards</p><p>2. Greet students at door and give five “volunteers” a marker to complete one question</p><p>3. Review and ask group to verify input at the start of class (focus/review exercise) </p><p>4. Write a single student name (first/last) on one note card</p><p>5. Complete cards as students enter class, during roll call, small group work, etc.</p><p>6. Arrange in a visible stack on front desk or podium</p><p> During instructional session:</p><p>7. Draw in sequence when calling on students or posing questions</p><p>With appreciation to Denise Minor, PhD (Department of Foreign Languages, California State University, Chico) </p>