Effective Questioning

Questioning Techniques

​The Power of Questioning Techniques in Education

Questioning techniques are strategies teachers use to engage students, assess their understanding, and promote critical thinking. These methods involve asking various types of questions to stimulate discussion, clarify concepts, and encourage active participation, ultimately enhancing the learning experience

​Enhancing Engagement and Learning Through Effective Questioning

Effective questioning enhances student engagement by encouraging active participation and critical thinking. It helps students internalise and apply knowledge, leading to better retention and understanding. By addressing diverse learning styles and promoting discussion, effective questioning improves academic performance and creates a more enriching educational experience.

Open questions require more than a yes or no answer, encouraging detailed responses and deeper thinking.

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​Open Questions

-How does photosynthesis contribute to the overall energy cycle in plants?

-What are the potential impacts of climate change on biodiversity?

-What is the process and significance of DNA replication?

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​Examples of open questions

Multiple Choice

Which of these is an open question?

• Did you complete your homework?

• What are your thoughts on the new school policy?

• Is the capital of France Paris?

• Have you read the assigned chapter?

Closed questions typically require a short, specific answer, often just "yes" or "no."

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​Closed Questions

-Is this painting from the Renaissance period?

-Did you use acrylic paint for this artwork?

-Is the primary colour in this piece blue?

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​Examples of closed questions

Multiple Choice

Which of these is a closed question?

• How do you feel about the new curriculum?

• What are the main causes of climate change

• Did you finish your project?

• Can you describe the process of photosynthesis

Probing questions delve deeper into a topic, encouraging further explanation and exploration of ideas.

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Probing Questions

-Can you explain why you chose that particular strategy during the game?

-What factors do you think contributed to your performance today?

-How could you improve your technique for better results next time?

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​Examples of probing questions

Multiple Choice

Which of these is a probing question?

• What is the capital of Italy?

• Can you explain why you chose that method?

• Is water wet?

• What time does the class start?

Prompting questions guide students towards a specific answer or encourage them to think in a particular direction.

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Prompting Questions

-What might be the benefits of adopting this marketing strategy?

-How could this financial decision impact the company's growth?

-Why do you think this business model is successful?

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​Examples of prompting questions

Multiple Choice

Which of these is a prompting question?

• What are the benefits of this marketing strategy?

• Is this the correct answer?

• What is the capital of Spain?

• Can you list the steps of the scientific method?

Clarifying questions aim to ensure a deeper understanding by seeking further explanation or detail.

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Clarifying Questions

-Can you explain what you mean by 'water pressure' in this context?

-What specific tools are needed for this type of pipe installation?

-Could you clarify the steps involved in fixing a leaking faucet?

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​Examples of clarifying questions

Multiple Choice

Which of these is a clarifying question?

• What is the capital of Germany?

• Did you complete the assignment?

• How do you feel about the new policy?

• Can you explain what you mean by 'market trends'?

Reflective questions encourage students to think deeply about their learning experiences and the implications of the content.

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Reflective Questions

-How did this event change the course of history?

-What lessons can we learn from this historical figure's actions?

-How might history have been different if this event had not occurred?

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​Examples of reflective questions

Multiple Choice

Which of these is a reflective question?

• What is the main idea of this chapter?

• Is this statement true or false?

• How did this event change your perspective?

• What are the steps in this process?

Poll

How useful did you find the Jonathan Sandling's YouTube video "My TOP 5 Questioning Techniques for Teachers"

• Very useful

• Somewhat useful

• Neutral

• Not useful at all

Plan your questions in advance and align them with learning objectives

Preparation

​Ensure all students are engaged by using a variety of questioning techniques.

​​Inclusivity

Provide constructive feedback to students' responses to encourage further thinking.

​​Feedback

​Practical Tips

Open Ended

Self Reflection

What new questioning technique did you learn today? How will you implement it in your classroom? Which technique do you think will be most effective? What was the most valuable part of today's session?