Today I decided to test the children on how well they have understood the concepts taught this term. Instead of giving them a worksheet and getting them to complete a written test I put the children into pairs and got them to explain different concepts and strategies to each other. They had 1 minute to re-read through their maths books and research the concepts before beginning. Their partners were in charge of deciding whether or not they fully understood the maths, if they felt their partner we struggling they were allowed to use the line -" so what you are saying is......". This is a supportive way of clarifying thinking without saying "no, you are wrong". When the children discuss ideas and concepts with each other they are reinforcing the information in their own minds. I was really impressed with the explanations the children were giving each other as i roamed around the room. It was a really non threatening way to gauge the level of understanding of the class. I was also able to give the children a chance to build on their key competency skills such as contributing, thinking, relating to others and using text and symbols. Well done!
2 comments:
Wow what a valuable learning experience! Questioning skills are a fantastic life skill to have and take with you to college. It sounds like you are all being challenge by your teacher to reflect and think about your learning in room 22. What a great blog entry! Thank you for sharing it.
Hi Harriet here i am in Nashville now and having a great time. You guys look like you are having heaps of fun making islands! I am not in school and i have been traveling alot. I have gone to Atlanta, Florida, Up near the Canadians boarder which was really cold and soon going to mexico but i will be careful about the Swine flu. Hope you guys are all good.
Love lots harriet
Post a Comment