“I challenge our listeners today to write down one or two things they can take action on as we give these ideas on the show, so they will really make it happen in their classroom and not just keep a list of it somewhere and not use it.” — Katie Klipp

School is back in session, and one of the biggest challenges teachers face is getting meaningful participation from all students, not just the eager few who always raise their hands.

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, you will find so many practical ideas to facilitate student participation within the classroom. As Katie Klipp shares multiple ideas, she encourages you to take one idea and implement it in the classroom. Take action on the information given in this episode.

Katie emphasizes the biblical foundation of questioning, noting that God asked questions not because He didn't know the answers, but to help people understand. She challenges teachers to move beyond traditional hand-raising to embrace "total participation," where every student responds simultaneously.

You'll discover innovative techniques including:

• Creative Four Corners variations that work even when students stay seated
• "Whisper Hold" strategies for managing different processing speeds
• Emoji matching and physical response techniques
• Strategic use of whiteboards, magic boards, and simple materials like page protectors
• "Back to Back, Front to Front" partner activities
• "Look, Touch, and Show" color-coded response systems

Katie also provides practical solutions for engaging reluctant participants and motivating students without creating prize dependency. From flying stuffed animals to sound effect boxes, she shares creative motivators that build intrinsic engagement.

Ideas for participation include movement-based responses, visual cues, tactile activities, and digital tools that get every student actively involved in learning.

Ideas for the anxious participants focus on creating safe, supportive ways for hesitant students to share their thinking without the pressure of being singled out.

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire – not in your own strength – but through God's power and his grace working in you.

Go do what God has called you to do!

Resources Checking for Understanding by Douglas Fischer and Nancy Frey

About Our Guest Katie holds a bachelor's and master's degree in elementary education and has taught first grade at Bob Jones Academy in Greenville, SC, for twenty years. She also assists at BJU Press in writing, revising, and consulting. She enjoys hosting workshops for teachers and assisting teachers with classroom management, technology, and creative instruction.

Sponsored By Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically. BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more. [bjupress.com]

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