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Big Paper ActivityGive Every Student a Voice

+Preparation Step 1

+Write a series of questions that you want students to consider

+Preparation

Form a group of 3 or 4 Move your desks into discussion formation

Send one group member to the front to obtain the following: 4 different colored markers (distribute to the

group) 1 piece of chart paper (put in the middle of your

desks with the question face down)

Remember Do not discuss the question or write on the paper

yet

+Part I

Comment on your own big paper

Silently turn over the chart paper Each group has a different question written on the chart paper All group members must silently read the question

Silently respond to the question in writing Remember, your response is your opinion (here is no right or wrong answer) Each student is to comment on the question Group members will silently respond to their group members’ answers in

writing Responses can address the question or ask another related question You can draw lines connecting questions/comments to other questions/comments Essentially, you are to conduct a written conversation

Remember More than one student can be writing at the same time All communication should be in writing. No talking!!!

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+Part II

Comment on other big papers

With your group rotate to another discussion group.Read the question on their chart paperUsing your markers build on the

conversation already there

Remember Still no talking!

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+Part III

Return to your own big paper

Return to your chart paper

You may now break your silence

Look at any comments on your paper written by othersAs a group identify one or two questions or

comments that stand out to you Be prepared to share with the class

+Part IV

Class discussion

DebriefThoughts?Questions?Reflection on having a silent conversation