Con Tricks

Con Tricks

The aim is to develop skills to work successfully within a group.

1. The teacher places a selection of cartoon characters around the classroom.  The cartoon characters should show a range of different emotions.
2. The students choose a cartoon character that represents their feelings about working within a group.
3. The students write a comment in a bubble beside their cartoon character explaining why they chose it.
4. The students then form groups and discuss their cartoon choice and how it may impact on working in a group.
5. The teacher encourages the groups to reflect on their cartoon comments in deciding how students can take responsibility and work towards achieving group goals.  This discussion should help participants to overcome some of their resistance to group work and encourage students to say the ‘unsayable’ but also be respectful of others’ views and opinions.

The activity could be done using online tools such as Padlet, virtual whiteboard and breakout rooms in Teams/Zoom.

Inspired by: Adapted from: Landale, A., & Douglas, M. (2007). The Fast Facilitator: 76 Facilitator Activities and Interventions Covering Essential Skills, Group Processes and Creative Techniques. Massachussetts: HRD Press. (Activity 15, p. 37).