Worksheets. Not my idea of fun. Kids will also agree or complain! ;) Sometimes it is necessary (if it promotes higher order thinking) but there are more engaging ways to check for understanding on comprehension and other skills being taught.
My favorite and my kids - HOT POTATO!!!
The pictures above and below are a quick 10-15 minute comprehension check on our novel, "The Outsiders"!! Yes, even 8th graders like this classic game! When the music stops, whomever is holding the ball has to answer a question from our novel. These questions range from basic recall to open ended questions! If answered incorrectly or the student does not provide enough textual evidence to support their opinion, they are out! WOAH!! Hold on!What do these students do?? Just sit down and not be actively involved? I think not! They develop, create and ask the questions for the game! They take turns - and if needed, I provide support!
It's fun. It's student centered. It promotes active learning and webb's depth of knowledge! ;) Warning: it can get competitive! I usually give some of our PBIS "warrior bucks" for the winners!
It's a student favorite that they'll be begging for more!
Think outside the box!! Try it today!
Until next time,
Ritchie