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Discussion Balloon

I have used this activity to aid in classroom discussion. It is a great tool to keep students focused on the topic. When I first introduce the activity to my class, I begin with a practice session by using a simple topic like, "What is your favorite food?". I then move on to more pertinent topics relating to our units of study.

1. Blow up a balloon and write the word "TOPIC" on the balloon.

2. Have students sit in a circle around the room.

3. Begin the activity by asking a question related to your current unit of study or stating an opinion to something which would illicit many different responses from students.

4. After asking the question or stating your own opinion to something, throw the balloon up in the air and tap it to a student.

5. The student who catches the balloon must then give his/her answer or opinion to the question or statement.

6. This student then throws the balloon up and taps it to another student, who will give his/her answer or opinion.

7. This continues until all students have had a turn to voice their answers or opinions.

RULES

1. Each student must give an answer or opinion.

2. Each student may take one pass during the discussion. The balloon must then be passed back to them at some point during the discussion.

3. If the balloon comes back to a student who has already answered, he or she should pass the balloon on to another student who has not yet answered.