Objectivity Through Anonymity

by Linda Starr, Education World

Keep classroom practices fair with random selection methods.

Numbers, Please

Use numbers, not names, to identify students.

Assign each student a number and use those numbers to label supplies, assign texts, and so on. Have students put their numbers instead of their names on homework and class work to speed record keeping and distribution of corrected work. Numbers also can be used for objective student selection; for example, "All even numbers between 1 and 10 line up." "All odd numbers can go to the restroom."

And the Winner Is...

Pull a stick; choose a student.

Write each student's name on a craft stick, and place the sticks in an unbreakable container. Sticks can be used to call on students during class activities and discussions, to pick partners or groups for cooperative activities, and so on.

Random Selection

Who has the matching sock?

Other items you might use to assure random selection or to create pairs or groups include: pairs of socks, colored clothespins, playing cards, and computer-created business cards.

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