RefreshED 2026

How can we support all students in thinking more deeply about social studies content? In this interactive session, educators will explore practical strategies for differentiating instruction through effective questioning, structured student dialogue, and short constructed responses. Participants will learn how to align questions and tasks to the TEKS while using student responses as formative data to guide instruction. Walk away with ready-to-use strategies that promote critical thinking, meaningful discussion, and greater student engagement in the social studies classroom.

Calling all Content K-8: Learn about Levels of Questioning from the Teacher and from the Student to optimize inquiry, levels of learning, and retention for all tiers. Learn how to differentiate your questioning so students will reach their potential. Also, learn how students can create levels of questions to increase their depth of understanding. Make Inquiry part of the culture in your classroom!

This session will introduce teachers to a format for student led text based academic discussions they can use either as formative assessments or as end of unit summative assessments.  These socratic discussions are highly engaging, and students learn so much from preparation and participation.  We will walk you through materials, resources, preparation, facilitation and scoring, with materials and takeaways you can use all year.