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Cold calling

Asking a pupil to answer a question without them putting their hand up, to keep all pupils thinking.

Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ), United States
Topic
Teaching and learning

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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No hands up All four UK nations (details may differ)
A classroom rule that pupils do not raise their hands; the teacher chooses who answers.
Think-pair-share All four UK nations (details may differ) United States International
A discussion technique in which pupils think alone, discuss with a partner and then share with the class.

More terms: Teaching and learning

Close reading · Co-teaching · Cognitive load theory · Concrete pictorial abstract · Curriculum map · Decodable book

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Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.