Hi, I have to lead a group discussion with the class. Any ideas on how to get my classmates involved?
The person who just did it divided the class into two and let them discuss on a topic and also gave each person either a question or an answer and let them find their partners. I need more ideas on this kind of activities, thanks.
This is kind of a neat process: the fishbowl --
Divide the class in two and have one half sit around desks pushed together in the center of the room; the other half sits around the outer perimeter of the room. Leave an empty chair at one end of the center group.
Pose your question (make it a VERY open-ended question!) and let the group in the center run with it. If anyone from the outer group is burning with a question of his/her own, that's what the empty chair is for -- that that person can only ask a question, no voicing opinions or giving answers.
About halfway through the time, have the groups switch, and do it again with the groups reversed.
Here's an example of an open-ended question: "After reading Exodus, what do you think 'Law' is?"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fishbowl_(conversation)
http://www.mediacollege.com/journalism/interviews/open-ended-questions.html
Another technique is "discussion tag".
Divide the class into 5 or 6 equal groups. Give each group one aspect of the discussion topic. Then give them a day to prepare. The next day let each group draw a straw for the person to represent the group in the "middle". Then as the discussion progresses, members from the group can swap members, but a member can only go in once. You can also use an alarm clock to set a discussion time and let the whole group swap out.
Thanks, but too bad i only have one day to lead the discussion and the room is too confined that it is not possible to move around. Any other suggestions? What kind of small activities could i do?
When it comes to leading a group discussion and getting classmates involved, there are several engaging activities you can try. Here are a few ideas:
1. Think-Pair-Share: Begin by asking the class a thought-provoking question related to the topic of discussion. Give students a few minutes to think individually, then pair them up to share their thoughts. Afterward, invite a few pairs to share their ideas with the whole class for further discussion.
2. Gallery Walk: Set up different stations around the classroom with posters or sheets of paper featuring different discussion prompts or questions. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group to start at a different station. Give them a specific amount of time to discuss the prompt, and then have the groups rotate to the next station. This way, everyone gets to discuss various topics and share their thoughts.
3. Role Play: Assign different roles or perspectives to students related to the topic of discussion. For example, in a history class, some students can take on the role of historical figures, while others act as historians or critics. This activity encourages students to explore different viewpoints and engage in meaningful discussions.
4. Debates: Divide the class into smaller groups and assign each group a different stance or viewpoint on a controversial topic. Encourage them to research and prepare arguments to defend their assigned position. Then, hold a debate where each group presents their case, provides supporting evidence, and engages in constructive discussions.
5. Class Polling: Use technology or traditional methods (e.g., raising hands) to poll the class on specific questions or statements related to the topic. Encourage students to explain their choices, providing an opportunity for meaningful discussion based on their varied perspectives. This activity allows everyone to participate actively and share their opinions.
Remember, the key to getting classmates involved is to create an inclusive and safe environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing their ideas. Offering clear instructions, setting time limits, and providing support during discussions will also help ensure that everyone has a chance to actively participate.