Helping Kids to Predict Outcomes
Today’s post is a guest post from www.minds-in-bloom.com. It’s is a great site that has all kinds of inspiring information regarding creativity.
Helping Kids to Predict Outcomes
by Rachel Lynette
www.minds-in-bloom.com
What are you likely to learn in this post?
What will happen if you click one of the links on the sidebar?
What will the weather be like tomorrow?
Most of us make many predictions every day, almost automatically. Making a prediction requires you to analyze what you already know and apply that information to the unknown future. Sometimes our predictions are dead on, but other times they are way off – and that matters. We act on our predictions. We make life decisions. Sometimes small ones: It looks like rain, I should bring my umbrella. Sometimes big ones: I am not likely to lose my job anytime soon, so I will go ahead and buy this house.
Clearly, making accurate prediction can affect the quality of one’s life. That is why predicting is a great skill to practice with your students. One of my favorite ways to help students predict outcomes is to ask:
What do you think will happen if…
For example:
What do you think will happen if you add vinegar to the baking soda?
What do you think will happen if you share the ball with Carlos?
What do you think will happen if you watch TV instead of studying for the test?
Often we adults tend to put these same thoughts into statements or even commands. We tell the child what the outcome will be rather than letting her come to her own conclusion. Allowing the child to think through the issue himself does several good things:
• It allows the child to practice applying prior knowledge to a new situation.
• It keeps the responsibility for the action and the outcome where it should be, on the child.
• Sometimes a child may have information that you do not, or a unique perspective. You may never hear it if you do not ask the question.
• Children are more empowered when they are allowed to think through an issue and make a decision (even with guidance) than when they are simply told what to do.
When a child does make a prediction and act on it, it is important to follow up. Ask the child if his prediction was accurate and how things went when he acted on it. If it was a good prediction and things went well, the child will enjoy telling you about her success. If things did not go as planned, you can help the child to figure out what went wrong and what might work better next time.
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