Scanning
Scanning is a technique that complements Show-me Boards.
With this technique, you take steps to ensure you take in as much formative information as possible from as many show-me boards as you can. For example, you might:
Position yourself strategically, so you can see everyone’s board.
Move to different parts of the room as you are viewing boards.
Use strategies to minimise what’s written on boards, such as multiple choice (A, B, C, D).
Teach students to use large writing.
Focus on being patient, waiting for all students to finish what they are writing and hold up their boards. To help with this, you might use phrases such as: ‘I’d like to see everyone’s board in 3, 2, 1...’
Why use this technique?
The power of show-me boards is that they make all students’ thinking visible. Scanning helps to take full advantage of this, helping you see what is written (or drawn) on every students’ board. Nobody gets missed.
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)?