Enhancing Classroom Discussion with Back Pocket Questions
https://clubexperience.blog/2017/09/12/open-ended-questions-whats-in-your-back-pocket/
As science educators, we know that fostering engaging, meaningful discussions is essential for deepening students' understanding. However, sometimes the conversation stalls or we find ourselves struggling to keep the discussion on track. That’s where "back pocket questions" come in—these are thoughtful, open-ended questions that teachers can keep in reserve to guide conversations, prompt critical thinking, and encourage student engagement.
What Are Back Pocket Questions?
Back pocket questions are questions you can quickly pull out during discussions to reignite conversation, clarify concepts, or challenge students to think more deeply. They are designed to:
Be open-ended, prompting students to think critically and creatively.
Encourage reflection on the content, personal experiences, or future implications.
Be adaptable to different topics or concepts in your curriculum.
Why Should You Use Them?
Promote Student Engagement - When the discussion slows down, having a set of back pocket questions can encourage students to engage with the material in a deeper way. These questions help keep the conversation moving and make students feel more involved.
Encourage Critical Thinking - Back pocket questions often prompt students to make connections between ideas, ask "what if" questions, and consider multiple perspectives. This challenges them to think more critically and develop their scientific reasoning skills.
Foster an Inclusive Environment - They can be used to include all students in the conversation, ensuring that those who may be quieter or hesitant to speak up also have the opportunity to contribute.
Enhance Teacher Confidence - As a teacher, having a go-to set of questions provides a sense of preparedness and confidence. It can also help in maintaining the flow of discussion when things aren’t going as planned.
Examples of Back Pocket Questions
"How would you apply this concept to a real-world problem?"
"What are some possible consequences if we didn’t have this phenomenon occurring in nature?"
"Can you think of an example where this idea might not apply?"
"What does this remind you of from earlier lessons or your own life?"
Tips for Using Back Pocket Questions Effectively
Be flexible: Adapt your questions based on the direction of the discussion.
Give wait time: Allow students time to reflect before answering.
Create a safe space: Encourage open dialogue, where students feel comfortable exploring ideas, even if they’re uncertain.
3 Resources to Dig Deeper…
Ambitious Science Teaching Back-Pocket Questions for Working with Models
Discussion Planning Tool (OpenSciEd)
2 Questions to Ponder & Discuss
How could having back-pocket questions help to push both your students' thinking and move your teaching forward?
In what ways could having back-pocket questions readily available help your students who may be struggling with sensemaking?
1 Action to Take
Plan your next discussion! Take the time to think about the questions you are going to ask and what you want your students to take away from the discussion. Prepare some back-pocket questions for yourself so that you are ready to go!