As you know students have different learning styles. What
works for some students does not work with others so how do you fix that? You
may hear, “I don’t understand” from one or two students. But I guarantee that
for every student who is willing to admit they do not understand there are at
least two more who won’t say anything. I found a simple solution to this
problem. Use students as teachers. I am not talking about using your A students
to tutor the students who have been struggling, although that is not always a
bad thing if they are open to it and have a trusting relationship. What I am
talking about is allowing students who have found unique ways in which they
understand to share their ideas. Most students are excited to share their ways
of learning and as a bonus it helps their self-esteem. I suggest letting those
students share their “lesson” on the board where others can see and experiment.
If they are not willing to come up on their own suggest working with them at
the board or ask if you can share their idea with others. You would be astonished
at how many creative ways a student can figure out how to solve a problem.
First, have that child explain it to you. If they are able to communicate it to
you then let’m at it! What is most important is the students understand what
the lesson means. Try not to hang onto your preconceived ideas about HOW they should get to their answers and you will be amazed at how their
test scores improve! Remember: “Should” is often a dangerous word in education.
