5 Simple Questions that Promote Student Thinking

Image Credit: Veer

Edutopia recently posted the following simple questions that teachers should be asking. These questions promote student thinking. 

Consider posted these questions at the back of your classroom as a reminder to ask them often.

#1. What do you think?

This question interrupts us from telling too much. There is a place for direct instruction where we give students information yet we need to always strive to balance this with plenty of opportunities for students to make sense of and apply that new information using their schemata and understanding.

#2. Why do you think that?

After students share what they think, this follow-up question pushes them to provide reasoning for their thinking.

#3. How do you know this?

When this question is asked, students can make connections to their ideas and thoughts with things they've experienced, read, and have seen.

#4. Can you tell me more?

This question can inspire students to extend their thinking and share further evidence for their ideas.

#5. What questions do you still have?

This allows students to offer up questions they have about the information, ideas or the evidence.

For more thoughts on raising thinking children, see:

• Kids + Thinking
• Think Outside the Bubble