As teachers, we play many roles in our students’ lives. We shape social and emotional development, support wellbeing, all whilst delivering academic progress.

So how do you keep track of changes over time, pick up issues quickly, and encourage students to reflect on their work and behavior?

Beginning and ending your week with a question on Ziplet can be a helpful way to keep track of changes in your classroom, as well as encouraging students to take greater ownership of their learning.

Here are some of the most popular questions to ask at the beginning and end of the school week.

1. What's one change you will make this week to become a better learner?

Starting the week with this question encourages students to be more active participants in their education. It challenges them to consider the actions they can take to improve their learning.

It also opens the conversation around the things students should be doing. Following this question, take the opportunity to share ideas about the steps they can take to improve their approach to learning.

2. What kind act will you do for somebody this week?

Encouraging small acts of kindness can be a powerful tool to build a positive school culture. It also encourages students to reflect on the ways they treat others for the rest of the week.

3. What are you most looking forward to this week?

Having something to look forward to gives us a greater sense of purpose. Encouraging students to think about this on a weekly basis provides both the immediate benefit and teaches students to practice gratitude as a life skill.

4. What are you struggling to understand at the moment?

Understanding the areas students need the most support on a weekly basis can help you take action in-the-moment. It can also provide a helpful means of tracking which parts of the lesson content students are struggling with and allows you to make adjustments for future classes.

5. How are you feeling ‘right’ now and why?

Whilst this question provides clear benefits from a wellbeing perspective, it’s also helpful for encouraging mindfulness. Asking students to reflect on their emotions helps them to become more conscious of their feelings and how this might affect their behavior.

6. What went well for you this week?

At the end of the week, encouraging students to reflect on the things that have gone well for them helps practice gratitude and looking for the positives. It can also help them understand and build on their strengths.

7. What’s one thing you will do differently next week?

Reflecting on what we can do to improve gives a focus point for effecting change in our lives and growing. This question gives students an opportunity to reflect and be proactive about their growth.

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