Reflections— A bit of metacognition.

Reflections are a great way to get kids thinking about their learning. And this metacognition can help students be more prepared for academic challenges.

Every Friday, I have students answer a reflection question in their composition books. I like to do this consistently to not only practice their reflection muscles but also for them to know what to expect on a weekly basis.

Kids don't know how to answer these types of questions, so I model how to answer a reflection question. I'll give them a starter sentence and I explain that the answer to the question is not the point, but the explanation behind the answer is where the metacognition happens.

Students write their answers in English so that they can express their thoughts completely. This is not the time for them to practice their language skills. I want them to be able to thoroughly answer and explain their answer so that they can get the maximum benefit.

The reflections are extremely insightful. As I read through the weekly reflections, I learn a lot about my students, what is working for them, what things can be tweaked, and what is not working for them.

Sometimes what they say can sting, so you have to have a thick skin and don't take anything they write personally.

But I think the benefits surely outweigh any negatives as there is so much to be gained from having students do them and your reading them.

Here are 25 reflection questions you can use in your class tomorrow!