How to Create Circle Questions for Classroom Learning

About homework, a reading or general understanding in any subject

Using circles to start or end the class can give students an opportunity to reflect on what they understand or on what confuses them. Sentence stems are a great way to do that. Examples of questions teachers might ask include:

• What is one thing you learned from last night’s homework? 

• What is one question you have about last night’s homework?

• What is one thing you remember about the reading of _____?

• What is one question you have about the reading of_______?

• What is something you understand about ______?

• What is something you don’t understand about _____?

To begin or end a unit or topic in any subject

Circle rounds can reveal what students know or would like to know about the topic.

• Share one thing you really understand about this topic and one thing that continues to confuse or puzzle you.

To address a difficult idea in a novel or non-fiction book

Circle rounds can be used to create a structured discussion about a social issue or topic that may be difficult for students to discuss. For example:

• What does it mean to bully someone?

• Tell us about a time when you or one of your friends was bullied.  

• What are some ideas you have about how to protect your friends from a bully situation?

To provide feedback for student writing

Circles can be used to offer feedback to students on written assignments. It is important to provide some safety with the progression of the rounds. For example:

• What did you notice in this piece of writing?

• What do you feel are the strongest aspects of this piece?

• Where would you like more details or have questions?

• Are there any areas that need some refinement?

• Do you have any rewrite suggestions?

To provide practice in a Foreign Language Class

Circles can be a great and easy way to practice a Foreign Language. The teacher can create a simple question for everyone to answer based on the level and vocabulary of the class. For example:

• My name is ______ and my favorite food is ______. 

• Yesterday after school I ______ . Today I will _______.