Boomerang
With the technique, Boomerang, you ask students to repeat key points from instructions or explanations back to you, either exactly as you have said or in their own words.
For example, you might say:
‘Julie, tell us what I’ve said we’re going to be doing.’
‘Christine, in your own words, tell us what the key points in that explanation were, please.’
Why use this technique?
It can be easy to fall into the pitfall of believing that because students appear to be paying attention, they actually are. Boomerang helps check that. Beyond this, this technique creates an opportunity for key points to be repeated, which should benefit everyone’s learning. It also helps breaks up teacher exposition.
Focused reflection
How well do you currently use this technique?
Is it a technique you will focus on developing?
If so, what are the key features you will focus on (things to do, and not do)?