Think, Pair, Share

Rationale

In an activity based on the Think, Pair, Share strategy, students write and discuss their ideas with a partner before sharing them with the larger group. This format gives students the opportunity to thoughtfully respond to questions in written form and to engage in meaningful dialogue with other students about these issues. It is a helpful way to give students time to compose their ideas before sharing with them with the class. The Think, Pair, Share strategy helps students build confidence, encourages greater participation, and often results in more thoughtful discussions.

Procedure

Think
Have students reflect on a given question or write a response in their journals.
Pair
Have students pair up and share their responses.
Share
When the larger group reconvenes, ask pairs to report back on their conversations. Alternatively, you could ask students to share what their partner said. In this way, the strategy focuses on students’ skills as careful listeners.

Identity Charts

Use this graphic tool to help students consider the many factors that shape their own identity and that of groups, nations, and historical and literary figures.