Discussion Web
Discussion webs are a great alternative to a teacher-dominated lecture or a whole class discussion where few students participate. They encourage students to engage with the text and each other by providing a guide in which students can explore different issues found within the text.
First, students brainstorm their ideas about the issue presented in the middle box of the graphic organizer. They meet in pairs to discuss their ideas and begin to fill out their webs. Next, two pairs come together to make a group of four. That group shares, discusses, and builds upon each others thoughts. Finally, a spokesperson from each group shares what they discussed with the whole class.
After every group has shared their thoughts with the class, students individually write a conclusion of the issue. Hearing from many different perspectives helps students to practice social skills needed in today's world like debating, examining all sides of an issue, and dissenting productively when disagreements occur.
This activity is perfect for ELLs or students who might suffer from anxiety when asked to participate in whole group discussions. The smaller group format, and electing one spokesperson lends itself to helping these students succeed.
Find two examples of the discussion webs for Bronx Masquerade here:
It's easy to get swept up in the plot of a novel, reading as quickly as possible to see what happens. However, these two issues are part of the main themes of the novel. Asking students to consider them deeply, primes them to consider the themes of the novel more thoroughly as well. For instance, Sheila changing her name to Natalia and attempting to be more "ethnic" opens up discussion for appropriation which is a huge problem in our society. On a more surface level, it also leads into discussions of identity; who we are, what we define ourselves by, and what is in a name.
Here is an example of how the worksheet would function in the classroom:
No comments