Talk Cue Cards to Stimulate Discussion

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Best For: Any grade. Modified for PYP

Description:

 Prepare talk cue cards found in Cambridge’s ‘Thinking Together‘ website. Share the cue cards with the students via Google Drive a few days in advance so that they can become familiar with them. In the discussion class, print five sets of the cue cards, put the students in mixed groups, and give each group a set of cards.

1. Groups distribute cards among members
2. (5-10 minutes) Students gather their thoughts and review their notes on the adaptations of the play (I had not planned for this, but it quickly became evident that it was necessary).
3. (15 minutes) Students discuss using the cards without their computers. Teacher goes around the room to support discussions.
4. (15 minutes) Students continue discussion, but begin taking notes in a Google Document that is shared with the whole class, with a table section for each group to use. There are a few advantages to using a Google Doc:
   1. While students are completing their shared notes, the teacher can review the document and add questions to facilitate further discussion and address any common misunderstandings that emerge: without interrupting discussions!
   2. Students can see what other groups are coming up with
   3. Students will have access to the notes for review when they are preparing their for their summative task.

Ranking: This activity was very powerful as it provided excellent structure for discussion

Chelsea's Post