Increasing Engagement with “I’m Thinking”/“I Know”
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You know what it’s like when you ask a question and the same two or three students shoot their hands into the air every time, right? If we routinely call on those students, the others will quickly realize they can’t compete, and their engagement may decrease.
Here is a simple strategy that will increase participation and ensure that everyone is ready to answer, no matter whom you call on.
First, let the students know you will be giving them time and that you expect everyone to be ready to share their thinking.
Second, ask the question (preferably an open-ended one), and wait quietly. Teach students to show one of two signs, which represent “I’m thinking” (above left) and “I know” (above right). Easily scan the room to see when you can invite students to share with each other or with the rest of the class.
This idea, which came from Teresa Thorson of Sequim, Washington, is a simple and effective way to raise the level of engagement and quickly assess the status of the class.
