Likert scales
Likert scales are those kind of annoying “strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree” questions that I always see on job applications. In this instance, instead of asking a question about theft; themes, topics and discussion questions become strongly agree, etc. questions that make the students think about their answers. When out in groups, students can debate their choices with each other and provide evidence as to why they chose that particular “answer.” Students will begin to become better write as they will see evidence put forth to prove an argument.
Last year, I spent a good chunk of my time assigning comprehension questions, and it was such a waste of time. These Likert scales drive me up the wall, but they drive me up the wall because I actually have to think about a response. I can see students (or myself) ignoring the “strongly agree” and just use “agree” as answer choice, but the evidence must still be put forth as to why the student agrees or disagrees. I like that you can strongly agree or disagree, because I think it adds to the debate, but it tends to get overlooks. I used a Likert scale as an anticipation guide with great success, so I’m looking forward to dumping the “What color is The man in the Yellow Hat’s hat?” style questions.
I like these questions too because it allows you to assess what students know rather than trying to catch them at what they don't know. Plus, you can ask students to stand up and sit down when they agree and disagree and/or even write evidence on sticky notes and post them in corners.
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