Partner Walk with Metacognition Questions
A cool-down after a test or assessment task: in pairs, students walk around the court and at each corner pick up a card with a metacognition question (what went better than expected, what I would do differently, which tip helped me). After each lap they switch partners, so the reflection is shared with several people while heart rate comes down.
How to play
- Place six cones around the court with a question card on each, and form random pairs (1 min).
- First lap at a comfortable walking pace: at each cone, the pair reads the question and both answer while they keep walking (2 min).
- Switch partners and do a slower second lap, answering only the questions at the odd-numbered cones (2 min).
- A very slow third lap with nasal breathing and the last question: what will I practice before next session? (2 min).
- Closing circle: three volunteers share their answer to the last question out loud (1 min).
Rules
- Walk, do not run, and stay on the outside of the court.
- Both partners answer every question; nobody just listens.
- What a partner shares is not passed on to others.
- You may skip a question you do not want to answer.
Variations
Easier
Only two laps with three simple questions.
Standard
Three laps with partner changes and six metacognition questions.
Harder
At the end, each student writes in one sentence the most useful answer they heard from someone else.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: does the loop in the wheelchair with their partner, or the group shortens the loop.
- Hearing impairment: questions are written in large print on the cards and the partner faces them when speaking.
- Autism: may keep the same partner for all three laps.
Learning goals
- Reflect on their own learning after an assessment.
- Share improvement strategies with different classmates.
- Lower arousal gradually by walking.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cones: 6
- worksheets: 6
Teacher tip
Tailor the questions to the day's test so answers are specific. If there is time, collect one sentence from each student for the unit self-assessment.
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