Speakers+Corner


 * SPEAKER’S CORNER**


 * What is it?** In this activity, which is a cooperative learning strategy, students express their points of view on a specific topic or issue assigned by the teacher. Students state their position, either for or against an issue, on a “Brainstorming Sheet” and provide statements which support their opinion. Students divide into pairs and take turns speaking, listening and recording their discussions. This activity will allow students to express point of view with supporting statements, develop critical thinking skills, develop skills to express ideas orally, and help students deepen their understanding on an issue or topic. The strategy can be used in a wide context of subject areas, and a wide range of grade levels. Furthermore, it can be used as a before-writing activity to scaffold writing a series of paragraphs to express an opinion.

I really like this because I find it hard to integrate valuable cooperative learning strategies in some classes. Also, it could be used in any grade and level! Enjoy
 * What to do:** Teacher is to distribute a Brainstorming Sheet and assign a hot topic for discussion which will generate lots of discussion. For students of lower grade levels, the teacher could model his or her own ideas around a topic on an overhead transparency. Then, students are to be put in pairs as Partner A and B, with all partner A students directed to express his or her opinion using the Brainstorming Sheet as a visual guide. Partner B listens carefully and records partner A’s ideas. Within an assigned time limit, students are to reverse roles and repeat the process. Students can then, if desired by the teacher, connect with one new partner just to share their ideas. As a summative activity, teacher can select volunteers or randomly choose students to share their opinion which should generate discussion and thereby provide some more insights around the topic. Teacher can then open a wider discussion, asking students if having now heard various arguments, does anyone feel differently about the issue.