This activity is ideal for use after reading an article or viewing a clip, allowing a class or small groups to engage in discussions about the material.
Questions for each of the “C’s” (Connections, Questions, Key Ideas, and Applications) can be tailored to fit the specific needs of the group or the texts being analysed. Teachers may choose to focus on just 2 or 3 of the “C’s” if that better suits their discussion.
Connection
Explain to students that they will identify any connections in the resource they’ve been engaging with – with their own lives or other learning experiences.
Ask students to think about personal experiences, events, or knowledge that resonate with the themes or ideas presented in the text.
Students can share with a partner, or one student can give a sample response for the group.
Encourage students to explore similarities and differences in their connections, fostering a deeper understanding.
Challenge
Explain that this step involves questioning ideas, positions, or assumptions presented in the lesson so far.
Ask students to consider what aspects of the text they may disagree with or wish to argue against. Prompt them to think critically about the claims or implications.
Invite one student to share a challenging idea relevant to the lesson. They should explain their perspective and why they find it contentious. Allow others to respond, offering their thoughts or counterarguments.
Encourage a respectful discussion where differing viewpoints are explored, helping students understand diverse perspectives.
Concept
Explain that this step focuses on identifying the key concepts or ideas in the resource or lesson that are significant and worth remembering.
Ask students to reflect on the main ideas that stood out to them and why these concepts are important.
Have students share their chosen key concepts, explaining the significance of these ideas and how they relate to the overall lesson.
Facilitate a discussion around these concepts, encouraging students to consider how they might apply these ideas in their own lives.
Change
Explain that this step involves considering any suggested changes in attitudes, thinking, or actions that the lesson or resource asks us to consider.
Ask students to think about what would inspire them to change perspectives or behaviours.
Invite students to share their thoughts on potential changes they could make with a partner, focusing upon specific attitudes or actions.