Purpose
Round Table is a technique that allows teams to quickly brainstorm answers to a question or to make lists of questions, facts, ideas, or conclusions. It is a time-saving way to generate responses from all team members that helps maintain a high level of student participation.”
Breaking It Down
■ During Round Table, team members all work from a single piece of paper.
■ One student writes a response on the paper and then passes it to the next student.
■ That student writes a response and passes the sheet along to the third team member, and so on.”
■ Teammates continue adding responses until you call time (usually after two or three minutes).
Fine-Tuning the Technique
■ Round Table works best when responses are limited to lists or short sentences. Do not use this technique for questions that require a lengthy response or extended thought.
■ If you find that the students are keeping the paper for too long, say “Pass” every 10 seconds or so to let them know it is time to give the paper” “to the next team member.
■ Vary the amount of time that you have the students spend brainstorming depending on how many responses they seem to be generating, as well as on the pacing of the lesson. You don’t want to cut off the flow of ideas or overstretch your time. Allow a bit of extra time if teams have difficulty getting started on their lists.
■ Use Random Reporter to have several teams share responses after you bring the brainstorming to a close.
PowerTeaching Cooperative Learning Handbook