The IMPROVE Method and Metacognitive Questioning Techniques The IMPROVE method was developed by Mevarech and Kramarski (1997) as a method for the development and use of metacognitive skills amongst students to enhance their mathematical thinking. IMPROVE is an acronym that refers to a method of instruction consisting of the following steps: Introducing new concepts; Metacognitive questioning, Practicing; Reviewing and reducing difficulties; Obtaining mastery; Verification; and Enrichment. The IMPROVE method guides and trains students in formulating specific questions when solving mathematical tasks. Through these questions the students determine and plan the structure of the problem; determine and make connections between new and existing knowledge; determine and apply appropriate strategies and principles in solving the new problem; and justify and explain their solution. During a lesson in which IMPROVE is implemented, the teacher first introduces the new concepts to the wh...
