Identifying Flawed One-Minute Essay Questions

For each item or pair of items, decide what is wrong and which item is better and why. When you have come to a conclusion, "hover" your mouse button over the center of the blue rectangle below the question. If the answer isn't revealed, see the answers at the bottom of the page.

1A. What did you learn in class today?

1B. What is the most important thing you learned about cell structure today?

Which is the better question?

1B is better.

Why is it better?

The question is focused and guides the response.

2A. What is one way you will use the information in today's lesson in the future?

2B. Explain how today's lesson applies to current events.

Which is the better question?

2A is better.

Why is it better?

2A is more focused and relates to the student perspective.

ANSWER KEY

1B is better. The question is focused and guides the response.

2A is better since it is more focused and relates to the student perspective.