ABSTRACT
Be careful not to ask rhetorical questions. So often teachers prompt students to take an action with questions such as “Would everyone please take out a pencil?” when the intention is “Take out a pencil.” The semantics may be minor, but the difference in results is major. Requests give students the option of responding “yes” or “no.” Give choices when available, but direct or command when no options are involved. Watch for this pattern in your requests and remind yourself to direct rather than ask.
