5 Simple Ways to Check for Understanding to Reach All Students!

When teaching, it’s important to hear from all students, not just those who always raise their hands. Try these 5 easy steps to engage all students & check for understanding, without having to plan or prep extra! 

1. Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down: Use this quick check to gauge student agreement or disagreement with a statement, measuring their understanding of the topic. Bonus: Have students close their eyes so they don’t look around for others’ answers. 

2. Turn & Talk: Encourage all students to participate by walking around and listening to their responses. This approach also helps engage those who are hesitant to raise their hands. Bonus: Pre-determine a couple of students to focus on their responses.

3. Whisper Your Answer on 3!: After asking a question, instruct students to say or whisper their answer on “3!” Count 1, 2, 3, and have them call out their answers for an authentic check. A Boston Literacy Ladies Favorite Strategy!! 

4. Stand Up, Sit Down: Encourage movement by having students stand up or sit down to show their responses, allowing for a quick poll while keeping them engaged at their seats. 

5. Sticky Notes/White Boards: Have students jot down answers and hold up responses to quickly make their thinking visible. 

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