Ask Questions from a Picture
Use who, what, where, when, why and how prompts to build accurate questions about a curriculum image, then answer only what the image supports.
Worked classroom example
Geography
Use a photograph of a river bend. Learners ask “Where is erosion visible?” and “How might the river change the bank?” They point to visible evidence and label the second answer as an inference, not a fact shown by the photograph.
Format inspiration: Twinkl ESL Resources lists Picture scenes and WH-question activities. This classroom routine, wording and example are original and adapted for EAL teaching.
Teaching sequence
- Choose an image linked to the lesson. Identify what can be seen directly and what the image cannot establish.
- Model two question patterns, such as “Where does …?” and “Why do you think …?” Highlight the question word, auxiliary and subject where relevant.
- Pairs write one question for three different question words, exchange questions and answer with a visible detail or a clearly marked inference.
- Learners form and answer one new question independently about a second image. Check the question structure and whether the answer is supported.
Materials and purpose
one curriculum image, diagram or photograph with enough visible detail to question
A shared visual gives learners concrete meaning to discuss while the question form remains the learning focus.
Try it in your next lesson
Prepare
Prepare one curriculum image, diagram or photograph with enough visible detail to question. Adjust the content to the class’s age, curriculum and language needs.
Classroom task
Use who, what, where, when, why and how prompts to build accurate questions about a curriculum image, then answer only what the image supports.
Check independent transfer
Show a new curriculum image. Each learner writes a well-formed question and an answer that distinguishes visible evidence from inference.
Collect a response on fresh content and note what the learner can do without the model, partner or prompt.
Teacher language
Which question word fits the information you want, and what word order makes the question clear?
“Which question word fits the information you want, and what word order makes the question clear?”
Respond to the learner
Name one part of the response that meets the task, ask one focused question, then give time to revise. Check again on fresh content.
Adjust support and challenge
More support
Preview essential words with an image, brief definition or bilingual note. Offer a model or sentence opening and allow rehearsal before independent work.
Greater independence
Remove one prompt, change the subject example or audience, and ask learners to justify their language choices.
Choose the next step
If the subject idea is secure but the English is unclear, model one useful language relationship. If the idea is uncertain, revisit the subject concept before increasing the language demand.
Format inspiration: Twinkl ESL Resources lists Picture scenes and WH-question activities. This classroom routine, wording and example are original and adapted for EAL teaching.