Instead of "I Don't Know" 

Here is how it works. Provide students with the following alternate responses to "I Don't Know". Practice using them together and name and celebrate when a student uses them!

May I please have some more information?

May I please have some time to think?

Would you please repeat the question?

Where could I find more information about that?

May I ask a friend for help?

On the first of second day of school, demonstrate how to use the responses and explain and practice the routine. Co-create a poster or slide that includes the responses. Here are two ready to go sample slides. 

Model, model, model and practice, practice, practice...especially for secondary students. Explain that you expect a response, even if it's wrong, because you have high expectations and are committed to building a community where every student has a voice. 

PRO TIP! What do you do when a student absolutely won't respond? 

It is important to pinpoint why the student is not willing. Sometimes we may  think students are noncompliant when they really don't understand or didn't hear. Early on, some student may be embarrassed to use this new strategy, but when they realize everyone is expected to do so, it becomes easier to participate.  Students acquiring a new language may also need time to adjust to the rhythm and sounds. Act as if students plan to participate. Encourage kindly and respectfully, saying "Please use one of the strategies" we've practiced and motion to the visual support. If this does not work, hold a private conversation. As always, keep in mind considerations for students with special needs who may need modifications to this strategy. 

After students are routinely using the poster responses, it might be time to level up. The idea is to prompt students to create their own sentences based on the context. For example, "What might you say if you need support during this lab?" " What if you are confused during the small group discussion today?" 

For more, see P.15 of 7 Steps