The Kate Languages Podcast - S6 Ep5 - Checking for Understanding

Feb 03, 2025
Kate Languages
The Kate Languages Podcast - S6 Ep5 - Checking for Understanding
25:51
 

The fifth episode of season 6 of the Kate Language Podcast was all about effective questioning and checking for understanding. 

Click above to listen to the whole episode - here is a summary of what I said.

Effective Strategies for Checking Understanding in MFL

When delivering language lessons, how we check student understanding can significantly impact learning outcomes. Here are six key practices to avoid, along with more effective alternatives.

1. Don't ask "Any Questions?"

Rather than ending explanations with "Has everyone understood?", ask students "What have you understood?" This invites them to reformulate instructions or concepts in their own words. Having multiple students re-explain helps identify misunderstandings and provides different perspectives that might benefit their peers.

 2. Don't allow half-formed answers as final answers

Avoid accepting partial answers as final. Instead, encourage students to refine their responses through:

- Discussing answers aloud initially
- Adding opinions or additional details
- Focusing on specific language elements like phonics
- Formulating complete, polished final answers

3. Don't cold call students in the class without giving them time to think of answers

Cold calling without preparation time can hinder genuine understanding. Instead:
- Allow time for written preparation
- Enable peer discussion
- Implement a no-hands-up approach
- Give students space to formulate thoughtful responses

4. Don't correct everything that students say or write

Over-correction can demotivate students and discourage participation. Focus correction on:

- The lesson's specific grammar points
- Current phonics focus
- Key learning objectives
This approach encourages more open communication while maintaining educational value.

5. Don't over-praise outcomes without focusing on process

Rather than praising correct answers alone, celebrate:
- Effort and persistence
- Learning strategies
- Progress over time
- Willingness to make mistakes

This approach helps students communicate their thought processes, providing deeper insight into their understanding.

6. Don't give feedback on specifics without linking to the bigger picture

When marking work, link individual corrections to wider language principles. For example, if several students struggle with adjectival endings, use this as an opportunity for whole-class review of the rules. Have multiple students explain the concept, reinforcing understanding across the group.

This approach to checking understanding creates a supportive learning environment where students feel confident sharing their thoughts and questions. It allows teachers to gauge comprehension more accurately while maintaining student engagement and motivation.

By implementing these strategies consistently, teachers can better understand their students' learning journey and adjust instruction accordingly, leading to more effective language acquisition.

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