This strategy uses questions to prompt student discussion and debate that expands student thinking and challenges ideas. Effective questioning encourages students to evaluate concepts and sources and ask “Why?” and “How?”.

When using Questioning, the teacher will purposefully ask strategic questions to help students clarify their thinking and isolate any confusion they may be experiencing.

Students will develop tolerance for ambiguity, exchange ideas, and develop reasoning skills (inductive/ deductive) through questioning in order to learn.

Questioning is not teacher-centered, a list of close-ended or recall questions, or a checklist of test questions. Questioning is most effective when teachers pose questions that require thought, allow students to answer questions in a variety of ways (verbal, written, through technology, with peers, etc.), and build students’ ability to ask their own probing questions.

Teacher Behaviors for Promoting SEL Competencies

• During classroom discussions, ask more questions that are open-ended and ask students to elaborate on their own thinking and on the thinking of their peers.
• Create an environment in which students know that taking risks and asking questions are safe.
• Show students you care and that you are invested in them by following up when questions pose a concern.
• Teach students how to pose questions appropriately, whenever they have questions/concerns they want addressed.

Student Behaviors for Developing SEL Competencies

• Recognize and acknowledge the thoughts and perspectives of others.
• Think about the question before responding.
• Engage with others to promote productive responses.
• Ask clarifying questions when misunderstanding occurs.