I posted all the test questions when we began the novel. I give the test today (after reading for 2 weeks), and half my students suddenly want to get clarification on the questions. I literally gave them the answers. I let them use their notes and the book.
My favorite question of the day...
"What do you mean 'Identify the main idea of the novel'? I don't get it!"
These are 8th graders. They will take the state test in two weeks. Is this question really that outlandish? How do you make kids get it? How do you make them understand how to use their own brains? If they have to think about it at all, they give up and act like the question is complex Calculus.
I still consider myself a new teacher, just now finishing my 3rd year. Is there some magic way to help them engage their brains and think for themselves? This is a skill I simply do not know how to teach.