What type of questions fosters deeper understanding during reading discussions?

Open-ended questions that require elaboration and critical thinking play a crucial role in fostering deeper understanding during reading discussions. These types of questions encourage students to go beyond simple recall of facts and engage with the material on a more analytical level. When students are prompted to elaborate, they must think critically about their responses, consider different perspectives, and articulate their thoughts clearly. This process enhances comprehension and encourages meaningful dialogue about the text, allowing students to make connections and develop their interpretative skills.

In contrast, closed-ended questions, yes or no questions, and multiple choice questions tend to limit responses to specific answers. While these types can check for understanding, they do not promote the same level of critical engagement or in-depth discussion, as they often do not require students to explore their thoughts fully or consider the implications of the text in a broader context.