Test Talk

Today we tried something new. I’ve been torn for a while about how our learning model values collaboration and verbal communication, but that we are not valuing that on assessments. I was inspired by Howie Hua, a math influencer to try his Test Talk strategy.

We had pencils on the floor, and for 5 minutes students could look at the test, and talk with their peers about the test, and math, and strategies.

It was interesting to feel the tension in the room dissipate when they learned that we were going to try this strategy.

I think with time, students would adapt to reading the test over first, and checking in with themself to see if they know how to do the question, and then communicating with others around them to talk strategy, or ask questions.

It might give students an idea of where to begin, and what questions to leave to the end. It will encourage them to forge bonds with all of their peers so they can ask anyone anything.

It will also encourage students to be present on test day, because it’s hard to replicate this when writing the test alone at a later date.

The tests then happened as normal. Some students needed more time, but many were able to get it all done within a period.