FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What action should a teacher take if students show disinterest during the introduction of a mathematics lesson?

1. ask students concept questions

2. change the lesson content

3. increase the lesson duration

4. reorganize the classroom setup

The correct answer is: ask students concept questions

Asking students concept questions is an effective strategy to increase engagement and interest during the introduction of a mathematics lesson. This interactive approach encourages students to participate actively in their learning rather than passively receiving information. By posing thought-provoking questions related to the lesson content, the teacher can spark curiosity and motivate students to think critically about the topic at hand. This technique not only engages students but also helps the teacher assess prior knowledge and identify areas where students may need more support or clarification. Reorganizing the classroom setup can also assist in fostering a more conducive learning environment, but it's more of a logistical change rather than directly addressing student disinterest. Changing the lesson content may not guarantee engagement either, as the core subject remains the same; it might just alter the focus. Increasing the lesson duration could lead to further disengagement, particularly if students are already disinterested, potentially exacerbating the situation rather than improving participation.