An SOS summary is a great tool to quickly check in with students at any point during a lesson. This strategy helps to assess students' knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs about a topic.

2. The teacher presents a statement (S) to the class. Write this on the board for students to copy. (Make sure this is a statement that has at least two points of view!)

3. Have students give their opinion (O) about the statement.

4. Then students support (S) their opinion with evidence. (facts, data, research, reasons, examples, etc.)

Use this formative assessment to make quick decisions about next steps for instruction.

1. Before a lesson: use SOS summaries to see if students have any preconceived notions, background knowledge, or opinions about a topic.

2. During a lesson: use this strategy to assess what students are beginning to understand about a topic. This is a great way to monitor your instruction.

3. After a lesson: use SOS summaries to see if beliefs or attitudes about a topic have changed as a result of new learning.

Examples of Content Uses:

1. The main character is a hero.

2. Recycling is important for our planet.

3. Pincers are a crayfish's most important adaptation.

4. Mysteries are the most exciting genre.

5. Knowing multiple math strategies is beneficial.

1. Students could draw a picture of their opinion and additional pictures of supporting evidence.

2. To encourage students to think about different perspectives, ask half of the class to agree with the statement and half to disagree.

3. Hold a debate about whether students agree or disagree with the statement where they present their evidence.