Hands Up!

Why do we ask children to put up their hands to answer a question in class?

A very short observation will show you that:

- One or two children typically get their hands up before the question is even finished because they love to talk and can think on the spot

- Those who take time to process the question (as all should) feel pressured by the fact that child A and B have their hands up already (now trying to process and cope with added pressure)

- Those who were not wanting to answer are relieved and sit back thinking "Thank God I didn't have to answer that one"

- Others who have their hands up waiting for their turn to answer cannot listen to others contributions because they are busy trying to remember what they were going to say!

- and others might not even want to answer as they have realised this is a "Guess what is in the Teachers head" at times!!!!

What to do?

Have a "no hands up policy" in the classroom.

Instead discuss with the children

"When I ask a question I will give you time to think, then I want you to share your idea with a partner then I will choose anyone, or two or three to share with the class" (Think , pair, share)

Use icecream sticks with the children's names on. Each time you ask a question wait 10 seconds and then draw a name from the pot then everyone will listen, think and be ready to contribute.

Remind children there are many possible responses and that there is not usually just one correct answer.

Ensure that the question prompts thinking and generates discussion.

Do not repeat their answer/ response your children are probably not hearing impaired so let the response be theirs.

Provide meaningful feedback to their response.

Whatever you do try to get rid of the "Thinking stopper" of hands up!