Effective+Questions

This semester, we have really looked deeply into what we can do, as teachers, to create effective questions for anything - prompts, assessments, projects, etc. Our Language Arts Methods class came up with the following criteria together (See Good Questions): 
 * inspires more curiosity
 * does not have a yes or no answer
 * allows for multiple avenues to lead to the same solution, several answers
 * has some what of a focus
 * well thought through
 * should be something you desire to know the answer to
 * does not try to deceive, honest
 * relevant

Through the reading of chapter 3 of __Language Exploration and Awareness__ by Larry Andrews, I have found that the criteria our class formulated concerning good questions is equal to the three prerequisites of language. This text points out the significance of making language and the learning of language genuine, "authentic", as well as creating more opportunities for students to explore beyond their own realm of reality. Allowing them to discuss together, ask questions, and simply converse on topics allows them to become even more engaged in learning, as well as personalizing their language and opinions. As this chapter also points out, the young adolescents we will be teaching in less than a year see school for its social perks, as opposed to the value of effective teaching. It is our responsibility, however, to enable them with the tools to learn on their own - asking effective questions, and learning how to research their own answers. It is through language, and helping them recognize the significance of using the language effectively that we can greatly impact their learning, and eventually their lives.