QAR
Preparation
Identify a target text. Create a list of the questions you authentically have as you read the text . Create a list of the questions you imagine students may have about the text.
Activity Steps
1
Teacher models reading from a text, and asking and recording questions of all four question types.
Give students maximal insight into your thought process, thinking aloud: “When I read…..I wonder……because…..”
2
Alone or in pairs, students read from the target text. As they read, they record questions of all four question types. Questions may be recorded in the margins, on Post-its, in two-column notes, or on graphic organizers that are divided into the four ques
As students read, circulate among them and sit with each student for at least 3-5 minutes, conferring with them about their reading and thought process.
3
The class discusses the generated questions as a group, and the answers to some of the questions. The class identifies certain key questions that do not have obvious or fixed answers. Students may reflect on these questions in writing or presentations.
As you discuss the questions, help students to identify those questions that do not have obvious answers and those that merit further thought or discussion.
4
Students reflect on their learning process, considering how questioning can help them to comprehend text.
Students may reflect individually or in groups, in writing or orally. They should respond to these questions: What did you learn through this activity? How did you learn this? What strategies did you use? How did questioning affect your learning today? How did it affect your comprehension of the text?
