More Questions, More Often
With the technique More Questions, More Often, you focus on asking questions frequently, rather than sporadically.
Why use this technique?
The more questions you ask, the more likely students are paying attention and thinking. Like all techniques, this usually requires deliberate practice to establish the habit.
Notes and tips
Rule of thumb
A helpful rule of thumb is: for every minute of teacher talk, aim to ask at least one question. That’s a great questioning frequency. If, whatever reason, you don’t feel you can’t manage this, set your own rule. For example, for every 90 seconds or two minutes of teacher talk, aim to ask at least one question. However, if you go beyond three minutes before asking a question, you’re probably missing valuable opportunities to ask more questions.
Verbal, visual and silent responses
Sometimes, you might want a verbal or visual response to a question (perhaps on show-me boards). Other times, you might just want students to think about your question silently, in their own mind. For example, you might say, ‘In your heads, what do you think happens next?’.
Follow-up questions
A useful tip to help ask more questions, more often is to get into the habit of asking follow-up questions. Use of the Drill Down, Stick With You and Bounce techniques can help with this. For example, if you get into the habit of always asking at least one follow-up question, you at least double the number of questions you are asking.
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)?