GES Grizzlies · Student Guide · Grades 2–5 · SY 2026–27
Hands Up for Questions, Not for Answers
A new GES routine — because YOUR thinking matters every single time a question is asked.
🤔 Think about this: In most classrooms, the same 3 or 4 students answer almost every question. What about everyone else? Their teacher never finds out what they're thinking. At GES, we're changing that — starting now.
The New GES Rule — Two Simple Things
When your teacher asks a question, don't raise your hand — even if you know the answer! Instead, think quietly. Your teacher will pick someone. Everyone has to think, not just the fastest hand.
If you are confused or want to know something, raise your hand! That's the most important signal in class. Questions show you are thinking hard. Your teacher loves questions.
Why Is Our School Doing This?
1
It's fairer. When only a few students answer every question, everyone else's brain can switch off. This way, everyone has to think — including you.
2
Your teacher learns more about you. When your teacher picks who answers, they find out what everyone actually knows — not just the fastest hand.
3
You get smarter at thinking. Waiting, thinking, and then answering is a real skill. The best thinkers don't just blurt — they consider. Think time is learning time.
How Will My Teacher Get My Answer? 4 Great Ways!
✍️
Whiteboard Show
Write your answer, then show it when your teacher says "Show me!" — everyone answers at the same time.
💬
Think Then Talk
Think first → share with your partner → your teacher picks from any pair to share with the class.
🎲
The Random Pick
Your teacher uses sticks or cards to pick fairly. Anyone could be called — so always be thinking!
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All Together
Sometimes everyone says the answer at the same time on a signal. Every voice counts — including yours.
What if I don't know the answer?
It's completely okay to say:
I'm still thinking...
I'm not sure, but I think...
Can I hear another idea first?
Here's the truth about why you get called on
Your teacher's goal is not to catch you out.
Your teacher picks you because your thinking matters. Not to put you on the spot. Not to embarrass you. Because what's in your head is exactly what they want to know.
🐻 The GES Golden Rule of Questions
Raise your hand when you have a question. Think hard every time your teacher asks one. Your brain is always welcome here.