Powerful Questioning in Mathematics Teaching

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Powerful Questioning in Mathematics

What do you already know about effective questioning in maths lessons?

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson you will be able to explain the value of questions in maths, identify and use different question types, and apply strategies to enhance student engagement and reasoning.

Why Questioning Matters in Maths

Questioning develops critical thinking, encourages reasoning, identifies misconceptions, promotes discussion, improves problem-solving skills, and builds student confidence. For example: 'How can you prove that 2 odd numbers make an even?'

Types of Questions in Maths

Definition: Questions with a single correct answer. Purpose: Check knowledge, recall facts. Example: What is 7 x 6?

Closed Questions

Open-ended Questions

Definition: Questions with multiple possible answers or methods. Purpose: Encourage thinking, reasoning. Example: How many ways can you make 20 using three numbers?

More Types of Questions

Definition: Ask students to evaluate their thinking. Purpose: Foster self-assessment. Example: What would you do differently next time?

Probing Questions

Reflective Questions

Definition: Follow up on answers to dig deeper. Purpose: Explore thinking, clarify ideas. Example: Can you explain why you chose that method?

Higher-order Thinking Questions

Definition: Invite analysis, synthesis, or evaluation. Purpose: Stretch reasoning. Example: Can you create a new problem similar to this one?

Activity: Wait Time

After asking a question, give 5–10 seconds for thinking before expecting a response. Notice how student answers improve!

Activity: Think-Pair-Share

Pose a question. Students think alone, discuss with a partner, then share with the group. This increases participation and depth.

Activity: No Hands-up Strategy

Instead of calling on raised hands, select students randomly. Ensures all students are engaged and ready to think.

Challenges & Solutions

Solutions

Challenges

- Students fear mistakes - Low participation - Focus on recall only

- Praise reasoning - Create a safe environment - Encourage all voices

Reflection

Do my questions promote thinking? Do all students participate? Am I asking enough higher-order questions?

Key Takeaways

Effective questioning boosts understanding, fosters independent learners, and should be thoughtfully planned for every lesson.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.