The Power Of Prediction
Prediction is a teaching strategy that is simple to use and incredibly powerful.
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I was reminded about prediction as a teaching strategy the other day after seeing a Twitter post about ways to use stories in class.
Prediction is so easy to use and a simple strategy. It’s essentially just asking students “What will happen next?” or “What is this about?”
Usually, it is a reading strategy. As students read, they are constantly predicting even if not asked. It’s how we read. We then continue reading to confirm or deny these inner-mind predictions. However, we do this same predicting when watching a movie or a video. Or even when listening to someone speak. It’s a constant “on” in our brains. This TED Talk outlines this well.
Here are a few ideas on how to apply “visibly” the power of prediction in your classroom. It’s also a handy way to get students to use the future tense!
Stories. The most common way to use prediction as a strategy. A good story has many moments where you can pause (hit pause if a video) and then ask students to predict. I love using this story about Sean. Try it! Find more story videos like this, perfect for predicting. Just pause and ask!
Skimming. Another strategy is to ask students to look at a title, headline, photo/picture and predict what they think is the “main idea”. It’s a great way to prompt for background knowledge on a topic/theme and to begin a lesson. This teacher outlines a full way to enact prediction through pictures.
Game. What Happens Next? It’s a well-known game on Youtube with many versions. Basically, students watch a video and then predict what will happen at the end. It’s a great prompt game and will definitely engage students.
Predict the future. Ask students to predict aspects of the near or far future as a fortune-teller. It's a fun activity. Here’s an example.
Optical Illusions. There are many online and ask students to tell you (predict) what is really being shown, and what they see. Then, reveal the answer, the cow!
Whatever you do - start using prediction as a powerful strategy and way to engage students in your lessons! “going to” goes a long way!
Here are some other reading strategies! Download the infographic.