VALUE CONTINUUM Purpose :
To express opinions, show values, discuss differences of opinion, engage in public
discussion.
Set Up :
Use a piece of rope or string for the continuum; have arrows pointing on the board; place the
two extremes of opinion on opposite walls.
39
How it works: In this format students or groups of students have to respond to a thought provoking
statement by saying to what degree they agree with it. There are a number of ways this can to
used: the students could be asked to come and stand at the point on a line that represents their
individual opinion, alternatively, first they could be asked to discuss a statement in groups
and then for one of the group to come up to the front and place their groups card/token
somewhere along the line,
explaining the position their group have taken as they do so. This is an excellent format for
comparing responses to different questions and finding out contradictions in their thinking
(
from http://www.at
‐
ristol.co.uk/cz/teachers/Debate%20formats.doc)
Find Out More
http://www.english
‐
teaching.co.uk/learninglearning/valuecon>nuumpg.pdf
COLDFISH BOWL Purpose :
Gives opportunities for group presentation of ideas, development of reasoning, analytical
questioning, exchange of ideas.
Set Up :
Chairs at the for group, rest of class sat as audience.
40
How it works: Like hot seating except a whole group comes to the front and expresses their views. They are
in the goldfish bowls, with other students able to question them, push for clarification and so
on.
