Targeted Cold Call
At a Glance
- Time: 2-3 minutes
- Prep: None
- Group: Whole class
- Setting: Any
- Subjects: Universal
- Energy: Medium
Purpose
Maintain universal accountability and check understanding by calling on students regardless of raised hands, using strategic selection (random names, equity sticks, or targeted questioning) to ensure all students actively process and prepare to respond.
How It Works
- Pose question with think time (30 sec) - "Everyone think: What's one cause of the Civil War? I'll call on someone in 15 seconds."
- Select student strategically (5 sec) - Use random method or target specific student to assess understanding
- Student responds; build on answer (1-2 min) - Student answers; teacher follows up with prompts or invites others to add
What to Say
Opening: "Think about this: How does photosynthesis affect the carbon cycle? Everyone should have an answer ready—I'm calling on someone randomly in 10 seconds."
During: [Draws name stick] "Marcus... [Marcus answers]... Good start! Now, Aisha, build on Marcus's answer. What would you add?"
Closing: "When I use cold call, it keeps everyone's brains engaged because you never know when I'll call your name. Prepare an answer every time."
Why It Works
Eliminates "opt-out" behavior where only eager students participate. Creates universal accountability—all students must actively think because anyone might be called. Provides formative data from broader sample than just volunteers.
Research Connection: Cold calling with adequate think time increases participation from diverse learners and maintains engagement (Lemov, 2015; Rowe, 1986).
Teacher Tip
Make it supportive, not punitive: "I'm not trying to catch you—I'm checking in on our collective understanding. If you're unsure, say 'I think...' or 'I'm not sure, but...'" This lowers anxiety while maintaining rigor.
Variations
Selection methods: Popsicle sticks with names, random name generator, seating chart grid, rotating pattern • Scaffolds: Think-Pair before calling (discuss with partner first), phone-a-friend (student can ask peer for help), partial credit ("Give me just one word related to the answer") • Ages: K-5: High scaffolding (pair-share first); 6-12: Direct cold call with think time; College: Socratic cold call sequence
Online
Use participant list randomizer feature in Zoom/Teams. Or number students 1-20, use random number generator. Display thinking spinner for drama.
Troubleshooting
Student genuinely doesn't know: "That's honest! Who can help Jamal with this? Jamal, listen and then restate in your own words."
Extension
Cold-call chains: First student answers, then nominates next student to build on their response. Continue chain for 4-5 students. Maintains engagement + models active listening.
Related: Choral Response, Participation Cards