Responsive Menu
Responsive Menu
Search questions are helpful, yet surface level. They invite students to search for context, content, and other information. As students search and discover their minds focus and they gain basic understanding that prepares them to dive deeper. Here are some examples of search questions.
These questions invite students to think deeper about and analyze context, concepts, principles, doctrines, patterns, and relationships. They usually have many possible answers. As students think deeper, the Holy Ghost can “enlighten [their] understanding”, so that it expands and deepens.
Whether students realize it or not, these questions invite them to testify and help them feel the importance of principles and truths. As students share and listen to testimony the Holy Ghost can bear witness of truth.
Think of a time when the Lord directed your decisions because you trusted in Him rather than relying on your own understanding (see Proverbs 3:5-6). How were you blessed for doing so?
If you could personally express your gratitude to the Savior for His sacrifice for you, what would you tell Him?
How is your life different because of what happened in the Sacred Grove?
When have you seen others respond faithfully to trials? How has that influenced you?
Ultimately we want what students are learning to make a real difference in their lives. Apply questions invite students to consider how they might apply what they’re learning. As students reflect on these questions, the Holy Ghost can guide them into applications that are uniquely personal.
What changes would you need to make to better keep the Sabbath day holy so that you can be more fully unspotted from the world? (see Doctrine and Covenants 59:9-13).
What is something the prophet has counseled that you could follow with greater exactness? (see Alma 57:1-27).
How can the principle that if we seek the kingdom of God first, we will be blessed in other areas of our lives help you prioritize your goals and activities for the next two or three years? (see Matthew 6:33).
“What theological insights regarding the nature and character of Deity can be inferred through a critical examination of Joseph Smith’s theophanic experience as recorded in Joseph Smith—History 1:15–20?” vs. “What can we learn about who God is from the First Vision?”
It can be helpful to use invitations and questions together.
Using follow up questions.
No questions that are too personal.
Avoid yes/no questions.
Ask questions they can answer not to show your knowledge.
Respond with courtesy
Wait
Some questions may span multiple categories.
For example:
“What stood out to you, and why?”
One student might notice a pattern (analyze).
Another might recall a personal experience and bear testimony (feel/testify).
Another might draw out a personal application (apply).
Let the Spirit guide the direction it takes.
Simple doesn’t mean shallow. The best questions are clear and direct, not overly academic.
❌ “What theological insights regarding the nature and character of Deity can be inferred through a critical examination of Joseph Smith’s theophanic experience…?”
✅ “What can we learn about who God is from the First Vision?”
Sometimes a short invitation followed by a question opens hearts more than a question alone.
Example:
“Take a moment to reflect on how the Savior has strengthened you.”
Then ask, “Would anyone like to share an example?”
Give students time to think. Silence is part of the process—resist the urge to fill it.
Follow-up questions help students dig deeper:
“What makes you say that?”
“How do you see that principle in action?”
“What difference has that made in your life?”
Avoid questions that are too personal—respect students’ boundaries.
Avoid yes/no questions when you want discussion.
Don’t ask questions just to show your knowledge.
Avoid controversial or speculative questions that distract from spiritual focus.
Don’t seek specific ‘right’ answers to open-ended questions. Let students explore.
Occasionally, ask students to reflect or write in a journal instead of responding aloud.
This helps quieter students engage in meaningful ways.
Always thank students for their responses.
Be courteous and warm in how you respond.
Even a brief “thank you” or “great insight” matters.
Let students know they’ll be invited to share insights.
This helps them listen more actively and participate with confidence.
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Add some nice text here.