Thursday, September 6, 2012

The Magic Number Cube Consensus Game

I always tell colleagues that the best things I learned about teaching I learned on Twitter. Recently, I tried out a an activity that was new to my classroom: The Subversive Lab Grouping Game. This activity inspired me to continue with the 'subversive' teaching through games on day two. This activity is one I have done in previous years, but it's been a few and now I have repurposed it based on my success with Frank Noschese's lab grouping game. This is called the Magic Number Cube, and it is a team-building activity that I picked up in the physics modeling workshop I took a few years ago. It's an activity that has students collaborating to think through a goal-less problem in order to learn numerous lessons about my class, including the process of arriving at consensus.

My colleague Don Pata and I have discussed in the past the factors which we find to lead most to student success in our modeling classrooms. It turns out that the classrooms with greatest student success are the classes where the students have the best ability to work together to arrive at consensus. In the modeling methodology of teaching science, teachers lead students through the modeling cycle. The modeling cycle requires students to develop mental models based on observations that can explain or predict patterns and relationships in physical situations. Students share their observations and data from experiments with each other through guided classroom discussions and must arrive at consensus based on the evidence to develop a model. Models are then deployed on novel situations and to solve new problems.

Without forming consensus, students leave holes in their understanding and questions unanswered about their observations or physical situations we've investigated as a class. This makes the development of a model unstable, and thus the deployment of an unstable model leads to unreliable problem-solving and understanding. This is the reason why forming consensus as a class is so important for students to hone as a skill in the classroom. That's why we go to the lengths to train students in the process of learning in this manner before letting them loose on the content in this way. If they are not well-prepared to learn in this setting of a modeling classroom, then it won't be as great a learning opportunity for them as it could be--and we want the best for our students--so, we have to get them the best opportunities.

The opening days of my class are spent on team-building, growing the classroom climate that fosters successful teamwork, and generating consensus friendly discussion. As I mentioned, the first day activity was a lab-grouping game, which was quite successful to communicate several messages to students about focusing on process and working as a team. The second day activity, the Magic Number Cube, continues in this same theme but with a slightly different focus in its message.

Here's how the activity works:


  • Students work in groups of four
  • A six-sided cube made out of cardboard and covered in blank printer paper (about the size of a basketball) sits on the floor 
  • On five sides of the cube are written the numbers 1-5, just like a die
  • Students can observe the cube on all sides, up close, or from far away
  • The cube cannot be touched, moved, or flipped over
  • Students must determine what is on the bottom face of the cube, and what reasoning helped them arrive at their determination
  • Students then create a whiteboard with their group that displays what they think is on the bottom face of the cube and explains their reasoning
Once students have constructed their whiteboards, they will present their ideas to their classmates and discuss everyone's reasoning. This is a process that makes thinking visible to other students. After discussing the ideas of each group and giving students the opportunity to question one another's reasoning, we ask students to vote as a class on one idea that they can accept. We do this with a 'show of thumbs' where:
  1. Thumbs Up = agree with the idea and reasoning
  2. Thumbs Down = disagree with the idea and reasoning
  3. Thumbs Sideways = could accept the idea but perhaps differ in reasoning
After an initial vote, we see where the class stands, give students a chance to ask additional questions, change their minds based on any newly shared information, and then revote. When the class arrives at consensus, they erase their whiteboards. 

The importance of arriving at consensus is discussed with students; the process they just went through to arrive at consensus is made transparent by naming/describing the steps; and the activity is debriefed by students. 

Students are really eager to find out what is on the bottom face of the cube, but it must be stressed to students that this activity is done to show how learning will look/feel in this class:
  • It can be frustrating not to know everything, sometimes; however, uncertainty helps us grow in our understanding
  • It is not about answers, it's about how you arrive at answers and solve problems
  • When we focus on answers, and not process, it leads to a fixed mindset
  • Fixed mindedness promotes worry about grades, being smart, and leads to self-limitations
  • Our class encourages growth mindset, where students can work to surpass their current knowledge and ability through teamwork, critical thinking, and practice
  • The process we used in this activity to arrive at consensus will be our most important learning tool
This activity is a very low-risk opportunity for classes to practice all the skills necessary to doing the model development cycle, whiteboarding, and arriving at class consensus. It was originally used as a get-to-know-you team-building activity when I first saw it; however, I wanted it to be more than just that. It has proven to be a thought-provoking activity to promote discussion and questioning in students as well as demonstrate model development and arriving at consensus.

One of the most insightful parts of this activity, and perhaps a subversive outcome, is observing the variety of ideas that students share about what might be on the bottom face. Student-thinking and lines of reasoning are two fascinating elements of education, and this activity illustrates those very well. 

All too often, school is reduced down to answers. The focus on answers starts early in elementary school and 'programs' student thinking, which leads to a fixed mindset as students get older. The limitations of a fixed mindset are perhaps at the root of many of the challenges students experience in school, but this can all be overcome if the focus is shifted from answers to process, the mindset can become a mind shift. Students can begin to move toward a growth mindset and realize that their potential is up to them. Ultimately, isn't this a message we want students to take away from school and use in their future? 

64 comments:

  1. Love it! Is the 6th side blank and you just want to see what the kids will come up with and how they'll justify their conclusions, or is there an answer that you (for obvious reasons) didn't put in the blog? I ask because I'm definitely going to be making one this weekend.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I guess I would respond with a question: What do YOU think is on the bottom face, and what reasoning makes you think so?

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi Gary

    A great activity and I like the approach. A couple of questions:

    If I can see 5 out of 6 numbers, does assumption come into the response?
    How long do you allow for the exercise?
    What are your thoughts on using abstract items on the visible walls such as a picture of a dog, a river, some lines, a number, etc?

    I am keen to find a good consensus building activity to use in my own teaching practices.

    Best regards
    David

    ReplyDelete
  4. That’s interesting and what makes it interesting is habit is a unique game of all I haven’t seen such of it before or a group of office mates playing such a game together. This is fun.

    ReplyDelete
  5. It's very simple and very interesting game. Awesome! Thanks a lot, Mr. Abud.
    I also want recommend you my blog about simple games at this link.

    ReplyDelete
  6. A 3D shape is an enormous accumulation of (regularly amazing) cards utilized for drafting and playing Limited. Drafting a block is like drafting supporter packs, however as opposed https://www.assignmentspot.co.uk/ to drafting from three fifteen-card Magic sponsor packs, you draft from fifteen-card "packs" that you make from your 3D square.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Thank you so much for sharing! I coach a division 1 Odyssey of the Mind Team, and am working with them to develop their teamwork skills. While searching for consensus building exercises, I've happened upon your post. In Odyssey, we are more concerned with creative problem solving and teamwork than arriving at 'the right answer.' So excited to bring this to the team. They'll talk for days! Many thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  8. an innovative and productive way to download, activate and complete the installation of Norton antivirus. Blackout Shades

    ReplyDelete
  9. the ideas of each group and giving students the opportunity to question one another's reasoning, we ask students to vote as a class on one idea that they can accept. We do this with a 'show of thumbs' where: romulation - Buzznor

    ReplyDelete
  10. we are more concerned with creative problem solving and teamwork than arriving at 'the right answer.' So excited to bring this to the team. They'll talk for days! Many thanks for sharing mp4hentai

    ReplyDelete

  11. Thanks for taking the time to talk about this, I feel strongly about it and really like
    mastering more on this subject. If feasible, as you acquire experience,
    would you mind updating your blog with much more information and facts?
    It is very helpful for me.

    Cheapest Electric Pressure Cooker


    Entryway Wall Mounted Coat Rack


    bestalls

    ReplyDelete
  12. This is really great and helpful piece of information. I am glad that you shared this mind-blowing information with us. Please keep us informed like this.
    office.com/setup | office.com/setup | www.mcafee.com/activate | mcafee.com/activate

    ReplyDelete
  13. i appreciate your great post i am here to give you some information about
    office.com/setup

    ReplyDelete
  14. Thanks for sharing your amazing thoughts. It's a well-explained and informative blog. Click here for more details
    HP instant ink login |
    Garmine Express |

    ReplyDelete
  15. WordPress is known around the globe as the factory of web pages. If you are interested in creating a website on WordPress feel free to check out our website first about WordPress login.
    Netflix party allows its user to watch tv online with their friends and family. to gather more information about this you can visit our website about Netflix Party.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Watch anywhere, anytime, on an unlimited number of devices. Sign in with your Netflix account to watch instantly on the web at netflix

    Netflix Login
    tv.youtube.com/start

    ReplyDelete
  17. Pluto tv is one of the ad-supported video streaming platforms online for free in the United States of America. Wanna know more in detail about how to Activate pluto Tv just us visit pluto.tv/activate.
    Netflix party allows its user to watch tv online with their friends and family. to gather more information about this you can visit our website about Netflix Party.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Paypal fees by using the invoice software and pay the Paypal fees. You can also the Paypal altogether.

    PayPal Login

    ReplyDelete
  19. Appreciate the value! Great post again! Through with this content, you have given stand out introduction.

    Core web vitals

    ReplyDelete
  20. Thanks for sharing the information. Please reach out to Mtalkz for any communication services like bulk sms, voice sms, Whatsapp business API. Get marketing automation tools and IVR System to grow your audience.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Connect a computer or a mobile device to the range extender's default WiFi name, which is Linksys Extender Setup – e2500. The e2500 represents the last three characters of the Linksys MAC address and can be found on the label at the back of the device. For Linksys E2500 setup without CD, open a web browser, enter "http://extender.linksys.com" or "192.168.1.1" in the Address bar, and press [Enter]. Click Start Setup.

    ReplyDelete
  22. The Printer customer support team is 24x7 available to aid printers users. It will"t matter which printer you're using. Reach out to our technical assistance group and discover an immediate answer. It is straightforward to get to our techies via printers client service site and live chat services. It's possible to readily cover the issue with the aid of the trained techies.
    ij.start.canon | Canon.com/ijsetup | www.canon.com/ijsetup | ij.start.canon | www.canon.com/ijsetup

    ReplyDelete
  23. quickpayportal.com | www.quickpayportal.com | Pay Your Medical Bill

    Pay Your Medical Bill using www.quickpayportal.com and Make a quick and fast payment online using the QuickPay Portal. Just find your QuickPay Code on your billing statement and and you're ready to go


    quickpayportal.com

    quickpayportal.com

    quickpayportal.com

    ReplyDelete
  24. canon is provided software with our product. it's product not very high range . It's a medium class product download canon ij scan utility . Everyone easily buy this product and use your office and home works.

    ReplyDelete
  25. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  26. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  27. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  28. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  29. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  30. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I want to always read your blogs. I love them Are you also searching for nursing dissertation writing services? we are the best solution for you. We are best known for delivering Nursing dissertation writing services to students without having to break the bank

    ReplyDelete
  32. our products features a stylish aesthetic,complimentary with any outdoor setting,washing laundry mesh bag exporter designed to keep yourclothing, patio furniture clean and ultimate in protection...

    ReplyDelete
  33. First, open the "Settings" app on your mobile device and tap the "Mail" option. Now, tap on the "Accounts" tab and click the "Add Account" option. Then, choose "Yahoo," and enter your complete Rogers email address in the given field, and tap "Next." Then enter the password and tap "Next." Now, tap on the "Sign-in" button. Now, enter the information of Rogers's incoming and outgoing mail servers. For Rogers email settings IMAP on your iPhone, fill the Rogers.com SMTP Server, SMTP port, SMTP security, SMTP username, and password. Now, you can easily send/receive any emails or messages to or from the clients.
    rogers email settings

    ReplyDelete
  34. I just wanted to let you know that your post is equally outstanding.
    Your message is really fantastic in terms of clarity, and I feel you are an expert in this sector.
    So, with your permission, I'd like to introduce you to the feed, which will keep you updated about future postings.
    adobe indesign crack
    adobe indesign crack
    360 total security crack

    ReplyDelete
  35. Millions of people are Looking for the Purest nature of Post. But Geeksscan can be an internet allowed interpersonal media space. We promote the exchange of industry programs by providing tools to allow users to readily convey (Articles and RevPages). Create curiosity groups (Groups) and also build their very own societal networking (Connections). Additionally, there are add-ons that could be utilized to promote and add value. Our aim is always to make it simple for you to join small business individuals for activities. Like joint ventures, promotion, promotion, and outsourcing.Keyword research is a crucial element of SEO. Whether you are running an existing blog or developing your content strategy for a new blog, quality keywords are one of the most efficient ways to drive consistent traffic to your site. GeeksScan

    ReplyDelete
  36. Youtube.com/activate
    Youtube.com/pair and this will produce a code, enter the got code on the TV. This is to be done just to affirm your decision by clicking "Add" and you can utilize the assistance from that point quiet.

    ReplyDelete
  37. Nice posting, I will share it with my contacts. Thank you very much for this post.

    ij.start.canon
    ij.start.canon

    ReplyDelete

  38. Amazing website, Love it. Great work done. Nice website. Love it. This is really nice.

    FMovies | FMovies


    ReplyDelete
  39. 토토사이트
    토토

    That is really fascinating, You're a very skilled blogger.
    I've joined your rss feed and stay up for in search
    of more of your excellent post. Additionally, I've shared your site
    in my social networks

    ReplyDelete
  40. 스포츠중계
    토토사이트

    If you are going for best contents like I do, just pay a quick visit this site all the time because it
    offers feature contents, thanks

    ReplyDelete
  41. 토토사이트
    배트맨토토프로
    I appreciate, cause I found exactly what I was looking for. You’ve ended my 4 day long hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye

    ReplyDelete
  42. Thank you so much for posting this blog; I will definitely read all of your future writings. Please visit Mtalkz for best WhatsApp Business API, Voice sms service in India

    ReplyDelete

  43. Great post. I was checking continuously this blog and I am impressed! Very useful info specifically the last part :) I care for such info much. I was looking for this certain information for a very long time. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Please contact GetItSMS if you require any communication services, such as bulk SMS, voice bulk SMS works, or a Whatsapp business API. To expand your audience, get marketing automation tools and an IVR system.

    ReplyDelete
  44. The MetaMask sing in accounts provide an exclusive outlet to keep crypto
    protected along with easy access to the decentralized applications on the network.

    ReplyDelete
  45. https://www.lotteryyogi.com/nebraska-lottery/
    Nebraska Lottery has a long and storied history. It was created in 1993 to help fund the state’s education system, and it has since become one of the most popular lotteries in the country.
    nebraska-lottery/a>

    ReplyDelete
  46. Superb blog! I really appreciated your great work and thank you.
    quiebras de abogados
    bancarrota cerca de mí

    ReplyDelete
  47. Thanks for such a great article here. I was searching for something like this for quite a long time and at last, I found it on your blog.Its great to hear from you Im reaching out about your content you provide me with an updates of technology. Read more

    ReplyDelete
  48. Monster Rabbit stands as a leading Turkish honey epimedium, offering premium products that redefine wellness. Our commitment to quality ensures an unparalleled experience, making Monster Rabbit the trusted choice for those seeking top-tier epimedium solutions in Dubai. Elevate your vitality with Monster Rabbit, your premier epimedium supplier.

    ReplyDelete