Better Questioning for Better Learning: Strategies for Engaged Thinking

The book "Questioning Techniques: A Practical Guide for Teachers" is a valuable resource for teachers who want to improve their questioning skills. It provides step-by-step guidance on how to ask deeper questions, set expectations, plan authentic questions, scaffold and differentiate questions, and avoid zombie questions. It also debunks myths about wait time and helps learners support their answers, use questions to check for understanding, and more. The book is appropriate for teachers, instructional coaches, training facilitators, and specialists and can be used independently or in schoolwide book studies to help educators improve the depth and quality of their questioning.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Discover the power of deep and meaningful questioning to unlock the full potential of your learners! In this essential resource, author Benjamin Stewart Johnson takes you on a journey to master the art of asking insightful questions. With his extensive knowledge and research in the field, he guides you step by step through the key considerations and brain-based strategies to create high-quality questions that engage and inspire your students.

Understanding the Thought Process:

Johnson begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding the thought process of your participants when asking questions. He explains that by comprehending their perspective, you can tailor your questions to elicit more meaningful and insightful responses. This not only enhances the quality of your data but also fosters a deeper level of engagement and understanding among your learners.

Setting Expectations for Different Question Types:

Recognizing the diverse nature of questions, Johnson guides you in setting expectations for virtual and face-to-face questioning environments. He discusses how to plan authentic, higher-order questions that challenge learners' thinking and encourage critical analysis. Whether you're facilitating online discussions or conducting classroom interactions, this section provides valuable insights on how to create an engaging and interactive learning experience.

Crafting Authentic, Higher-Order Questions:

Johnson teaches you how to craft authentic, higher-order questions that go beyond simple recall or comprehension. He shares practical tips and techniques to develop higher-order thinking skills in your students. From asking open-ended questions to using complex sentence structures, this section empowers you to create questions that require learners to apply their knowledge, analyze information, and make meaningful connections.

Scaffolding and Differentiating Questions:

Johnson understands that not all learners are at the same level of understanding. He provides valuable strategies for scaffolding and differentiating questions to meet the diverse needs of your classroom. By adapting your questioning techniques, you can ensure that all students have an opportunity to participate and excel, regardless of their prior knowledge or skill level.

Avoiding Zombie Questions:

Johnson debunks common myths and misconceptions about questioning, such as the notion that waiting for a response is essential or that asking multiple-choice questions is always the best approach. He shares practical tips and techniques to avoid creating "zombie questions" that lack engagement and meaningfulness. Instead, he encourages you to ask questions that stimulate critical thinking and promote deeper understanding.

Helping Learners Support Their Answers:

Johnson recognizes the importance of helping learners support their answers. He provides practical strategies and techniques to assist students in constructing and evaluating their responses. From encouraging self-reflection to using peer feedback, this section equips you with the tools to facilitate meaningful dialogue and promote active learning among your students.

Using Questions to Check for Understanding:

Johnson emphasizes the role of questioning in checking for understanding. He shares effective techniques to assess learners' comprehension and identify areas where additional support or clarification may be needed. From posing open-ended questions to using formative
assessments, this section empowers you to evaluate the depth and quality of your students' learning outcomes.

In addition to these valuable insights, the book concludes with action plans and practical exercises to help you apply the principles and strategies discussed throughout. Whether you're a teacher, instructional coach, training facilitator, or specialist, this resource is designed to enhance your skills in questioning and improve the depth and quality of your teaching.

Whether you're an educator of all subjects and grades or engaging in schoolwide book studies, this book is a must-have for anyone who wants to unlock the full potential of their learners through deep and meaningful questioning. So, why wait? Start your journey towards becoming a master of questioning today!

Weight: 494g
Dimension: 177 x 251 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367761059