Allows the Teacher to Check for Mastery

Paul (teacher) is using a ‘hand-drop’ signal while teaching a pronunciation exercise in a spelling lesson. He gives students the instructions by saying; “I’ll say pairs of words. One of these words ends in the sound /i/. Why. Say it'”. After pausing for one second, he uses the hand-drop signal. Students chorally respond on the signal “why”. Paul then says the second word; “‘White’. Say it”. After pausing again, Paul uses the hand-drop signal and the students are firm and answer correctly. Paul continues, “One word ends in the sound /i/, which word?”. He pauses and then gives the hand-drop signal. Students respond, “white”. Paul listens intently to the choral response to ensure that all students have responded on the signal and that their answers are correct. He knows that the students are at mastery, and continues with the exercise.