3-Way Conversation

What is 3-Way Conversation? A questioning game involving 4 learners and previously learned material.

Why does it engage students? It’s game-show like approach allows students to play while developing expertise as a team.

How does it improve learning? Students create neural connections through intense concentration and the power of questions. The strategy fosters collaboration and effort with gentle competition while focusing attention on curriculum.

When can it be used in class? To make connections between previously learned material and new topic, to have students deepen understanding of concepts presented by the teacher, or to review learned material for written assignments, presentations and tests.

Choose 4 students, have then demonstrate using prior knowledge.
The student in the middle is on the “hot seat”. First, the child on one side asks a question, then the child on the other. The person in the hot seat give a short as accurate answer to each question. A fourth student (the “judge”) sits across from the three and decides the accuracy of the answer. The judge may have a textbook or other information to make the correct decision.
Start with 2-3 questions from each side. The students may plan the questions and answers.
Once the questions are asked, the students rotate clockwise.

NOTE: It’s O.K. for the questioner or judge to help the responder if he/she is stumped; the goal is to have everyone in the group understand the concepts and information.

VIDEO EXAMPLES

Gr K-3 students…