Wait Time/Process the Answer Yourself

Rationale: When a teacher assigns appropriate length and thoughtful think time, it conveys to students that all can answer if provided time to process.

Description: This is an invitation to think. Provide more time when asking open-ended, complex questions that require interpretation. Offer less time when asking a straightforward question with one correct answer.  If you want a thoughtful response, provide the time. Utilize a visible timer when appropriate. Gauge wait time by saying, "Show me with your fingers, how many more minutes you need," then reassign the amount of think time needed.

Resource:

Archer, Anita L. Explicit Instruction: Effective and Efficient Teaching. New York: Guilford Press, 2011.

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