The Discussion Web is a strategy I got out of the Buehl textbook (2nd edition). It is a very interactive learning strategy which incorporates reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The Discussion Web ensures that all students participate in whole class discussions, instead of sitting passively. Students read a text which develops opposing viewpoints. After students have read the text, the teacher introduces a focus question for discussion. Assign students to work in pairs, and instruct them to defend opposing sides of the question. Each group will get a blank Discussion Web form, and then will list reasons on the web to make their argument. Each pair is then grouped with another pair of students, and they share their arguments. The groups are to reach a consensus on the question, and write it at the bottom of their Discussion Web. Next, each group presents its conclusion, along with one reason, to the class. Once all groups have presented, students are ready to write a personal response to the focus question.
Lisa Beach