ICQs and CCQs

 

Welcome to this week's blog!

Today, we’re diving into two essential tools for any language classroom: ICQs and CCQs. These simple yet powerful questioning techniques can significantly affect how well students understand instructions and grasp new concepts. Whether you're new to teaching or just looking to sharpen your methods, we'll break down what ICQs and CCQs are, why they’re so effective, and how you can use them to boost engagement and comprehension in your lessons.

CCQs

Let’s look at a teaching technique called “concept check questions” (CCQs) to help make sure students understand new words. Instead of asking, “Did you understand?”, try asking specific questions like, “Is a cosmopolitan city small?” This way, you see if they really know the meaning. CCQs are especially helpful for complex words or ones with multiple meanings. Preparing these questions helps you quickly check students’ understanding and adjust to their level. Try it, and you’ll see how much clearer vocabulary lessons can become!

ICQs

What Are ICQs and Why Use Them in the Classroom?

ICQs, or Instruction Checking Questions, are specific questions teachers use to verify that students understand the instructions given for a task. They help students grasp the steps involved, reducing confusion, especially during complex tasks or group activities. Instead of relying on a general “Do you understand?”, ICQs clarify by confirming that students know exactly what’s expected of them, leading to a smoother and more focused class.

Examples of Effective ICQs

For instance, if you've asked students to work in pairs, you can clarify with ICQs like: “Are you working alone or in pairs?” (Answer: “In pairs”), or “How many minutes do you have?” (Answer: the assigned time). By keeping these questions brief and straightforward, you ensure students are on track and ready to engage fully with the activity.

Also,  we read the book Let’s Go for English in 100 Fun Ways, which has many fun activities to help us learn English. I chose the activity called "Let’s Go Home." This activity is about describing how we get home, using English words for directions and things we see on the way. It’s a great way to practice our language skills while talking about something we all know. Sharing our different journeys home helps us connect with each other and makes learning even more enjoyable!

That’s all for this week! Just remember, learning English is like trying to dance—sometimes you step on toes, and other times you nail the moves! So don’t be afraid to stumble; it just means you’re grooving to the rhythm of language! Until next time, keep those laughs coming, and may your English be as fun as a dog chasing its tail!