31. SIDE-TO-SIDE (Discussion)
Description: A twist on the Four Corners Debate, this strategy deepens a student’s understanding of topics or issues by forcing the student to make judgments about them.
Application: This activity is used when students are required to take a position on a particular issue.
Process: Select a topic and determine the issue/problem to be tackled by students.
Create ten statements that will force students to think deeply about the topic or issue. Label each side of the room as “Definitely” or “Definitely NOT.” As the students hear the statements, direct them to the side that best represents their opinion. Once students are on their sides, elicit a volunteer from each side to justify their position. After both positions have been heard, ask if anyone wants to move based on one of the volunteer’s statement. Clarify the ideas shared during this discussion, chart the main arguments, for and against, on the board.
Janice Sutton, CCECHS
Description: A twist on the Four Corners Debate, this strategy deepens a student’s understanding of topics or issues by forcing the student to make judgments about them.
Application: This activity is used when students are required to take a position on a particular issue.
Process: Select a topic and determine the issue/problem to be tackled by students.
Create ten statements that will force students to think deeply about the topic or issue. Label each side of the room as “Definitely” or “Definitely NOT.” As the students hear the statements, direct them to the side that best represents their opinion. Once students are on their sides, elicit a volunteer from each side to justify their position. After both positions have been heard, ask if anyone wants to move based on one of the volunteer’s statement. Clarify the ideas shared during this discussion, chart the main arguments, for and against, on the board.
Janice Sutton, CCECHS
Reference and/or for more information:
31. Side-to-Side
Sutton, J. (2011). Side to Side. Cross Creek Early College High.
31. Side-to-Side
Sutton, J. (2011). Side to Side. Cross Creek Early College High.
