Dot Polling

How do I use it?

• Present a question and a list of options or ideas to students. Consider co-creating the list of options with students.
• Display the options on a recording sheet or chart paper.
• Give each student a set number of dot stickers. Each dot represents a vote.
• Students place the stickers underneath the option or idea that they prefer.
• You could ask them to either vote for multiple options or give them the option of placing multiple dots on the same option to indicate a higher level of interest.
• Ask students to be silent during the voting round, so as to avoid influencing the decision of others.
• Ask students to tally the number of stickers placed next to each option and to record the total for each option.
• The option with the most dot stickers wins.

Variations

• This strategy can be used in small groups or with the whole class.
• Present images, bingo chips, or other blocks as options instead of text when working with younger students (i.e., Which activity do you prefer? Images: recess yard, drawing, book, building blocks, etc.).
• In a virtual class, try using a virtual whiteboard like Padlet or Google jamboard. Post poll prompts on virtual sticky notes and ask students to use the “like” function to cast their votes.

Extensions

• Make connections to the math curriculum (addition, comparing and contrasting numbers, plotting data in a table, etc.).
• Challenge students to think critically about the results. Ask if there were any factors that might have influenced them to vote for or against a certain option.
• Connect the poll to literacy by asking students to tally the results and write a persuasive essay or hold a debate based on the top one or two choices.