Do you ask a list of questions for every math lesson? In college they teach us all the importance of asking different types of questions while teaching. I believed them. However, it wasn’t until I was teaching in my own classroom that I truly discovered that asking the right questions during math lessons can make a big difference. Asking the right questions can increase student engagement and understanding. I learned that I had the ability through the questions I asked to stimulate curiosity, promote critical thinking, and encourage deeper understanding of mathematical concepts in my kiddos. Over the years I have asked hundreds of different questions during my math lessons. But Today, I want to share with you my five favorites. I’ve found these questions to be incredibly effective in my math classroom. They have transformed the way my students learn and interact with the material I teach. I believe they can do the same for your students.

1. What do you notice?

This simple yet powerful question is a great way to kick off any math lesson. When I present a new concept or problem, I ask my students, “What do you notice?” It encourages them to observe closely and think about the details. Whether it’s a pattern, a relationship, or a specific feature of a problem, this question gets students talking and sharing their initial thoughts. Over time, I’ve seen my students become more observant and attentive to details, which sets a solid foundation for deeper understanding.

2. Why do you think that is?

After students share their observations, I follow up with, “Why do you think that is?” This question prompts them to think critically about the reasons behind their observations. It encourages them to make connections and develop hypotheses. This has been incredibly effective in my classroom for fostering a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Students learn to articulate their thinking and back up their observations with logical reasoning, which enhances their overall problem-solving skills.

3. Can you explain how you got that answer?

When a student provides an answer, whether correct or incorrect, I always ask, “Can you explain how you got that answer?” This question is crucial for uncovering their thought processes and identifying any misconceptions. It also encourages students to communicate their mathematical thinking clearly. I’ve found that this question not only helps me understand my students’ reasoning but also boosts their confidence as they learn to explain their methods and solutions.

4. Is there another way to solve this?

To promote flexible thinking and a deeper understanding of math, I often ask, “Is there another way to solve this?” This question encourages students to explore different strategies and approaches to a problem. It helps them see that there can be multiple ways to reach the same solution and that math is not just about finding the right answer but also about the process. In my experience, this has led to richer classroom discussions and a greater appreciation for the creativity involved in math.

5. What would happen if…?

Finally, I love to challenge my students with “What would happen if…?” questions. These hypothetical questions push them to apply their knowledge in new and different contexts. For example, “What would happen if we changed this number?” or “What would happen if we used a different operation?” This type of questioning encourages students to think beyond the immediate problem and explore the broader implications of their learning. It has significantly enhanced their ability to transfer skills and concepts to new situations.

The Difference These Questions Have Made

Incorporating these five questions into every math lesson has made a tremendous difference in my classroom. My students are more engaged, curious, and confident in their mathematical abilities. These questions have helped them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making them more independent and thoughtful learners. I’ve also noticed that my students are better able to articulate their thinking and understand the reasoning behind mathematical concepts, which has led to improved performance and a deeper love for math.

I encourage you to try incorporating these questions into your math instruction. They can transform your classroom into a more interactive and dynamic learning environment. By consistently asking these questions, you can foster a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and help your students develop essential skills for their academic and personal growth. Happy teaching!

Save These Questions for Later

Be sure to save this list of questions for every math lesson to a Pinterest board for great teaching tips. Then, you can easily find them when you want to incorporate some of them into your engaging math lessons!