One-Minute Papers: A Quick Formative Assessment Guide for Teachers

A One-Minute Paper (OMP) is a simple formative assessment technique: at the end of a lesson, learners take 60 seconds to write a short answer to a prompt. It shows teachers, quickly, what learners understood and what still confuses them. This guide explains what One-Minute Papers are, how to run one, sample prompts, how to use them online, and their limits.

On this page 9 sections

What is a One-Minute Paper?

A One-Minute Paper is a quick check for understanding. Learners get one minute to write a brief response to a prompt. The prompt can be:

• a question about the lesson,
• a request to summarize the lesson, or
• a reflection on their own learning.

OMPs are usually done at the end of a class or lesson. Learners can answer individually or in small groups.

How to run a One-Minute Paper

1. Define the prompt. Choose a prompt that will show how well learners understood the lesson.
2. Give the instructions. Explain the prompt and what you expect. Stress that the answer should be brief.
3. Give learners one minute. Set a timer and let learners write.
4. Collect and review the responses. Read them to see what learners understood and where they need help.

Sample prompts

• What was the most important thing you learned today?
• What was the most confusing part of the lesson?
• What questions do you still have about the topic?
• Summarize the main points of the lesson in one sentence.
• How could you apply what you learned today to your life?

Adjust these prompts to fit the learning objectives of your lesson and the needs of your learners.

Benefits for teachers and learners

• Promotes reflection. Learners think back on the lesson, which helps them hold on to what they learned and see where they need to improve.
• Checks understanding quickly. Teachers get a fast picture of what the class understood. They can use it to change the next lesson or adjust the pace so no one is left behind.
• Increases engagement. Every learner takes an active part in the assessment, not just those who raise their hands.
• Opens the door to feedback. Responses give teachers a basis for timely feedback, so learners know their strengths and weaknesses.

Tips and best practices

1. Use clear, specific prompts. Tie each prompt to the lesson’s objectives. Avoid prompts that are too complex or vague, because the answers will not tell you much.
2. Emphasize brevity. Ask learners to write short answers that capture the key points of the lesson.
3. Use OMPs regularly. Regular use lets you track progress and spot patterns in learning across a course or unit.
4. Always follow up with feedback. This can be a class discussion or short comments on individual responses.
5. Let responses guide your teaching. Use what learners write to decide which topics need more support or clarification.
6. Adapt to your learners. Change the prompt or the response format to make the activity accessible to everyone.

One-Minute Papers in online learning

OMPs also work in online and distance learning. Digital tools such as Google Forms, Microsoft Forms, and Poll Everywhere let teachers post the prompt, collect answers, and review them quickly.

Limitations

• Not for complex topics. OMPs may not suit topics or skills that need deeper analysis and evaluation.
• Limited depth. Short answers can limit how deeply learners reflect and how detailed your feedback can be.
• Not ideal for every learner. Learners with language barriers or learning disabilities may find the format hard. Use other formative assessment tools for them when needed, or adapt the format.

Summary

One-Minute Papers are easy to set up and work in both face-to-face and online classes. Used regularly, with clear prompts and real follow-up feedback, they help teachers check understanding, adjust instruction, and help learners reflect on and strengthen their learning.

Frequently asked questions