Activity Overview
Discussion storyboards are a great way to get your students talking about their ideas in science! They allow students to critique and evaluate different viewpoints in a respectful and cooperative manner. This activity can be used at the start of the topic to identify what students already know about the topic, what questions they have and dispel any misconceptions students may have. The discussion storyboard can be downloaded as a Power Point presentation, printed or displayed digitally and serve as a visual guide that students can refer to as they progress through the unit.
Students Can Collaborate!
Teachers may wish for students to work together on the discussion storyboard which is possible with Storyboard That's Real Time Collaboration feature! With Real Time Collaboration, students can work on the same storyboard at the same time which is perfect for this lesson! As teachers know, collaborating on assignments allows students to think on a deeper level while increasing their communication and problem-solving skills. Collaboration can also help cut down on the time it takes to complete a storyboard. While there is no set limit to the number of users who can work on a storyboard at once, we recommend five users or fewer for optimal performance. All of our assignments default to individual. To make this lesson collaborative, teachers must enable collaboration for the assignment within the "Edit Assignment" tab.
Getting Started
Teachers can begin by showing students the example discussion storyboard and ask them to look at the problem presented in the first cell. The following cells show four students who all have an idea about the problem in front of them. Students should think about whom they think is the most correct and be prepared to explain why that person is correct. In the collaborative storyboard, students can find a character within the Creator that looks like themselves, add it to a cell along with their name in the bottom text box and their argument in the speech bubble.
Post Activity Discussion
After students have created their storyboard, they can further discuss their ideas. This discussion can be carried out in a range of different formats. Students could discuss in pairs, small groups, or even in a teacher-led, entire class setting. It is important to agree on a list of discussion rules with students before they start so everybody gets a chance to participate. Students will also be able to practice adapting their speech to a formal debating context and can demonstrate their grasp of formal English.
More Ideas!
Here are some other ideas to use these discussion storyboards in your lessons.
- Students add another cell on the end of the example you’ve given them to explain whom they think is correct and why.
- Students create a storyboard to describe why a student is incorrect, and then "teach" the concept.
- Students create their own discussion storyboards to share with peers on the current topic.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
After previewing the example discussion storyboard that shows four students who all have an idea about the problem in front of them, you will create your own discussion storyboard with your peers.
Student Instructions:
- Find a character in the Creator to represent you. You can choose a character that looks like you or any character you wish!
- Drag the character down to one of the cells. Edit the colors and pose.
- Add your name in the text box below.
- Add your idea to the speech bubble. You may wish to include additional text and images to explain your opinion and why you believe it is correct.
- Remember to work on your cell only and do not disturb your classmates' work.
- Be prepared to present and discuss your opinion further after the storyboard is finished!
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who do you think is correct? | You have selected a person you believe to be correct and explained why. | You have selected the person you believe to be correct. | You have not selected a person you believe to be correct. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How To Encourage Collaboration Among Students
Create a Collaborative Environment
Make physical arrangements that encourage group work, such as grouping desks or creating designated areas for collaboration. The objectives of the joint effort should be made clear. When students know what is expected of them, they will be able to perform better and deliver an effective performance.
Establish Ground Rules
Participate with students in developing a set of rules or instructions on how they will cooperate. This promotes accountability and ownership. Make sure the students are aware of the assignment, their responsibilities, and the deadline. Before they start, address any uncertainties or worries. Encourage the students to be patient and helpful with each other.
Encourage Problem-Solving Mindset
Encourage the students to be able to solve the conflicts in the groups by themselves. Teachers can teach the students some effective conflict management strategies and give some lectures on problem-solving. Students can apply these strategies when there is any problem in the group and ask for some guidance from the teachers.
Promote Inclusivity
Encourage an atmosphere where all opinions are appreciated and heard. Make sure everyone has a chance to participate and encourage more reserved pupils to speak out. Students should be respectful of each other's perspectives so that everyone feels included and motivated to participate.
Give Interesting Activities
Give students some interesting and engaging activities that they can learn from but at the same time enjoy doing as well. Teachers can first introduce some group bonding activities such as games which can break the ice and help the students get more comfortable with each other.
Frequently Asked Questions About Collaborative Discussion Activities for Carbon Cycle
What are some good topics for the carbon cycle discussion?
One example of a prompt is "Explain the role of photosynthesis in the carbon cycle, Talk about the effects of human activity on the carbon cycle, and What role does the ocean play in the carbon cycle as a carbon sink?” Students can use these discussion prompts to enhance their understanding of the topic and work with each other to improve their teamwork.
Why is group discussion crucial to understanding the carbon cycle?
Active participation, critical thinking, and the sharing of ideas are encouraged via collaborative conversations. This aids students in comprehending complicated subjects like the carbon cycle better. Students can learn better from their peers as they share a similar thought process hence working with class fellows will provide them a better perspective of learning.
More Storyboard That Activities
Carbon Cycle
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