“But…I Don’t Understand!”

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.