Calling on students at random keeps everyone thinking, but only if the class believes the choice is really random. Here is how to set that up.
Show the pick, do not just announce it
When students see the wheel spin, they stop wondering whether you chose them on purpose. Put the wheel on the projector and spin it where everyone can see.
Decide whether names come back
- Remove each name after it is picked when you want every student to get one turn.
- Keep names on the wheel when you want everyone to stay alert all lesson.
- Tell the class which rule you are using before you start.
Give a safe way to pass
Random calling works best with a low-stakes way out, such as "phone a friend" or "come back to me". It keeps the pace up without putting anyone on the spot.
Let students add their own names
With a Live room, students scan a QR code and add themselves from their phones. It saves typing a list and makes the wheel feel like theirs.