321 RIQ Assessment

Have you ever used the 321 RIQ assessment method?

321 is sometimes called RIQ.

RIQ stands for Recall, Insights and Question.

It is also known therefore as 321 RIQ

The 321 RIQ technique is something you use at the end of a lesson to encourage learner reflection. It helps learners monitor their thinking and learning and that’s got to be a good thing!

321 RIQ is a structure that assists learners to process new information.

What to do

Ask children to do the following:

3. Recall three things from the lesson.

2. Write down two insights or ideas received during the lesson.

1. Write one question that you still have.

Learners can share what they have written with a partner or small group.

Eric Frangenheim in his book Reflections on Classroom Thinking Strategies: Practical Strategies to Encourage Thinking in your Classroom provides a useful example of the 321 RIQ technique (attributed to Gerard Alford). He says,

“Though it starts simply at the data retrieval level (Recall), the next two stages will clearly lead to Higher Order Thinking and reveal depths of insight and questioning.”

Eric says that RIQ 321 can be used usefully to ascertain understanding before progressing and ploughing ahead with work and so provides learners and teachers with valuable formative feedback.

Example

3 Recalls: learners state 3 facts they can remember from a project they have completed to date, an article, a short story, or something they have just watched.

2 Insights: this can be why is the material relevant, who it affects, the implications, how it relates to themselves/school/society, and identifying correlations, patterns and connections.

1 Question These may include:

  • I do not understand why…?
  • How does this affect…?
  • In the future, what will…?
  • What is the relevance of…?
  • How does this relate to…?
What are the benefits of 321 RIQ?
  • It motivates learners to be independent in reflecting on what they learn and how they learn.
  • It supports learners to be accountable for their own learning.
  • It gives you valuable information about student learning and any gaps that may need to be looked at.

Why not give it a try and share with your colleagues?

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