Snowballing
Definition
This technique enables pupils to think about their own responses to issues and
gradually begin a collaboration process with those around them to consider
their thoughts on the same theme. It is a useful way of encouraging less vocal pupils to share ideas initially in pairs and then in larger groups. It also ensures that everyone’s views on an issue may be represented and allows a whole classconsensus to be arrived at without a whole class discussion. This technique is lots of fun for the kids, but it requires some discipline, which may results in some kids being kicked out of the activity/room. The teacher has to ensure and mention to the kids that those who do not discipline will not be allowed to participate.
How does it work?
- Students do some note taking
- In pairs, students look at each other’s notes to find ‘good’ and ‘bad’ points
- Pairs combine into fours, and each student explains the good and bad points of their original partner.
- The teacher hears feedback from each group of four on what is best practice
- The teacher corrects any misconceptions or bad practice and summarises best practice
- Students as individuals set themselves action plans for improvement.
References
http://www.elframework.org/refmodels/ladie/ouputs/workshop/glossary.pdf http://olc.spsd.sk.ca/de/pd/instr/categ.html