Purpose

To discuss a topic or various topics, rotating the role of leadership and mixing up a group of people. This protocol is an extensive exercise in listening and speaking skills.

Materials

Chart/poster paper
Marker for the leader/recorder

Procedure

1. Form three groups of 3 or 4 and sit together at a table.
2. Each group selects a “leader.”
3. The leader’s role is to record the major points of the conversation that takes place at the table and to then summarize the conversation using the recorded notes.
4. The group discusses the topic at hand until time is called. Groups can be discussing the same topic or related topics.
5. The leader stays put; the rest of the group rotates to the next table.
6. The leader (who didn’t move) presents a summary of the conversation recorded from the former group to the new group.
7. Each table selects a new leader.
8. Again, the new leader’s role is to record the major points of the conversation that takes place at the table and to then summarize the conversation using the recorded notes…a bit later.
9. The group discusses the topic at hand until time is called.
10. Repeat the process, ideally until all students have had a chance to lead.
11. After the final round, the last group of leaders present to the whole group rather than reporting out to a “next rotation.”

Variations

Mix the Room: For large groups, begin with everyone in a circle. Number off around the circle, from one to five. The teacher provides a prompt, and at the teacher’s signal, each group of five clusters into a small circle to discuss a topic for a designated amount of time. The teacher then signals for the 1’s to advance to the next cluster. Ones then provide a summary of the last group’s discussion, before the newly formed group discusses a second prompt. Each time a new prompt is given, the teacher asks a different number to move forward to the next cluster, thus “mixing the room” for each new prompt.

References

Adapted from: www.theworldcafe.com