What should a teacher do if a student's answer is unclear?

When a student's answer is unclear, asking which part of their answer they meant is a highly effective approach. This strategy encourages open communication, allowing the student to clarify their thoughts and articulate what they intended to convey. It also helps pinpoint specific areas of confusion or misunderstanding, providing the student with an opportunity to elaborate on their reasoning or perspective. This interactive dialogue fosters a supportive learning environment and can enhance the student's critical thinking skills.

Other options, while they may have some merit, would not be as effective in encouraging clarity. For example, asking the student to start over completely could intimidate them or discourage them from engaging with the question altogether. Rephrasing the question may not address the specific misunderstandings if the student is unsure about their own answer. Requiring clearer writing might overlook the underlying issue that the student may need help articulating their thoughts more effectively. Thus, engaging directly with the parts of their answer provides the most constructive pathway for clarification.