Hello!
I had a query about the “Try 3 before me” strategy I’m using in the classroom, so I thought that more of you might like to hear about it.
I recently found out that the average teacher gets asked up to 300 questions per day (though I’m sure this is an understatement). I hear questions like “What’s the date?”, “What are we doing today?”, “Which book do we need?”, and “How do I spell __?”. For the sake of my voice, and sanity, I’m promoting independence through “Try 3 before me”.
The idea is that before coming to me with a question, children are encouraged to try 3 things to see if they can answer it for themselves first. This includes checking the board, re-reading the question or task, using resources and asking another expert (someone who looks like they know what’s going on). If they are still feeling unsure, then they come to me and I can help.
I’m using this strategy to build children’s confidence and independence in being able to actively seek answers to their problems, and try different strategies, rather than coming to me for a quick answer (which most of the time they could have answered themselves!).
So far it’s proving to be successful, and I’m beginning to hear the language used by the students in the classroom. I imagine you get asked just as many questions at home, so I encourage you to have a go with a similar strategy. Even responding with “how can you find out?” can be empowering for children- they can do it, or at least have a go!
I have attached a copy of the poster we’ll be using in the class, just so you can see what I’m talking about.
Erin
