‘Hands up’ is a very common way of inviting pupil participation in lessons. However, research shows that typically only around 25% of the class raise their hands.
Random selection approaches such as ‘lolly sticks’ are a way to immediately increase pupil participation.
I’ve now asked over 100 children what they think of hands up and random selection. The above quote is from a 10 year old; it’s clear he doesn’t perceive himself as ‘smart enough to participate’. With few exceptions, children say they prefer random selection. Their reasons are:
it is fairer
it enables more children to join in
it ensures more children listen.
“Lolly Sticks get everyone in the class thinking, not just one person.
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More on whole-class talk
