Take a Stand
Activity Summary
This activity encourages students to reflect on and share their point of view on a topic. This is done by physically moving around the class and taking a position in one of the corners: strongly disagree – disagree – agree – strongly agree. They must share and discuss the position they took.
This activity can also act as an energizer, since the students have to move physically.
Activity Plan
1
3 min
Explain to students that the purpose of the activity is to reflect on and create an opinion about a topic explained in class (or, alternatively, about a task done by them or their work group).
Place 4 sheets of paper with the words “Strongly Disagree – Disagree – Agree – Strongly Agree” in 4 different corners of the classroom. Ask all students to position themselves in the centre of the room. The teacher then proposes a statement and asks students to take a stand (e.g., “I think we were good at communicating in our group work”).
2
2 min
After each statement (you may propose multiple statements), start a 5-second countdown, during which students can reflect. At the end of the 5 seconds, students should take a position in one of the 4 corners.
3
5 min
When the students have positioned themselves, ask one student from each corner why he or she chose it and collect multiple points of view. Acknowledge and thank the answers, then ask all students to position themselves in the centre again.
4
Contextual
Repeat the process with as many relevant statements as necessary.
Tips & Tricks
- This activity can be used in different contexts:
- In reflecting upon own learning around a topic taught, so you as a teacher also have deeper insight into your students understanding of the topic
- In allowing your students to reflect upon their own efforts or their collaboration during a team process
- To evaluate a skill they have learned/ practised
- In another topic that might be relevant to your class’ specific needs. You can tweak this activity to what needs your class has.
- Remind students that it is okay to disagree and that they can position themselves differently from their peers…indeed, it is good to do so, because all their perspectives are valid and important and add nuance to the activity.
- Communicate your understanding that it may be difficult to place yourself in a position you are not 100% in tune with, but it is crucial to take a position, even though it is often easy to remain neutral. This prompts them to reflect on what they think/feel about the statements.
- Build a safe learning container, where students do not get afraid that they will be judged for their insights.