Let them. Engagement comes first. If a student picks a question that feels easier, it might be because they feel more confident answering it. Confidence leads to risk-taking later. Start where they are.
You’re still assessing their understanding. If their answer shows mastery, great! If it doesn’t, now you know where to offer feedback and help them grow.
Want to level it up while still giving choice? Instead of asking students to answer a set number of questions, give them a point goal. Each question is worth a different number of points based on the level of thinking it requires. For example:
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DOK 1 or recall-type questions = 1 point
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Analysis or application questions = 2 points
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Deep reflection, synthesis, or evaluation = 3 points
Then say: “Choose any questions to reach a total of 5 points.”
Now students have to make a strategic choice. They can answer five easy questions, or two medium and one tough one. Or they can go all in on one big question that pushes them to think critically and go deep.
This doesn’t just differentiate, it gives students control and makes them think about their own thinking. And that’s a huge win for engagement and learning.
Over time, you’ll notice students pushing themselves more. They’ll want to try the “hard” ones because they’ve built up the confidence and curiosity to take on a challenge. Add a few new higher-level options to your list each time. You’ll be amazed at who steps up.
Let the students surprise you. They will.
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