Description: Teacher poses a question, gives students time to think, then uses a can of popsicle sticks with all student names on them or an app such as Stickpick to call on students at random. The teacher’s name can even be added to show solidarity with the students. Sometimes only a few students are called on, but other times (for example, when eliciting initial model ideas) everyone in the class may be asked to respond.
Rationale: Students are held accountable for staying on task and participating. Reinforces the idea that everyone’s contribution is important. All students have the same chance of being chosen to respond, so students who are less likely to raise their hand have a chance to be heard and to feel that their ideas are valued. Students are encouraged to put forth effort without fear of being “wrong”.