TAPPLE Strategy

What is TAPPLE?

TAPPLE is a quick formative assessment strategy that helps teachers check for student understanding in real time. TAPPLE ensures all students are engaged and accountable for learning, rather than relying on just a few volunteers. It is often used in classrooms to check comprehension and encourage participation.

Why Use TAPPLE?

• Promotes active engagement from all students.

• Helps teachers quickly assess understanding.

• Provides opportunities for reteaching in the moment.

• Encourages accountability in learning.

What are some steps to implementing TAPPLE?

TAPPLE Steps in Detail

1. T – Teach the concept

   • Present the lesson material using direct instruction, guided practice, or discussion.

   • Ensure students have the necessary background knowledge before assessing their understanding.
     
     

2. A – Ask a question

   • Pose a question related to the concept you just taught.

   • The question should be clear, focused, and require students to recall, apply, or explain the material.

   • Example: If teaching about the Boston Tea Party, you might ask, “Why did the colonists throw tea into the harbor?”
     
     

3. P – Pause to allow think time

   • Give students a moment to process the question before selecting someone to answer.

   • Think time helps students formulate responses and increases participation.

   • Consider using a strategy like “Turn and Talk” to allow discussion before calling on a student.
     
     

4. P – Pick a non-volunteer

   • Call on a student who has not raised their hand.

   • This ensures that all students stay engaged and accountable for learning.

   • You can use popsicle sticks, a random name generator, or simply scan the room to choose someone.
     
     

5. L – Listen to the response

   • Pay attention to the student’s answer to gauge their understanding.

   • If the answer is correct, acknowledge it and reinforce key points.

   • If the answer is incorrect or incomplete, guide the student toward the correct response through hints or scaffolding.
     
     

6. E – Effective Feedback

   • Repeat the correct answer or clarify misconceptions.

   • If needed, have another student add to or rephrase the response.

   • Reinforce the key concept by summarizing or connecting it back to the lesson