Use the familiar game of Tug of War to illustrate the conflicting forces surrounding any truth claim. A rope or diagram can represent the tension between True and False, prompting students to explore the different factors influencing each side.
1. Identify the truth claim
Identify a question of truth – a controversial claim that something is true or false – where you know there is some evidence on both sides that students can bring forward.
Begin by presenting a truth claim that has evidence for both sides. Examples might include: “Are genetically engineered foods safe?” or “Did a specific historical figure start a particular war?”
Ensure that the question is relevant and engaging for the students, and keep it in front of them on the board or screen throughout the discussion.
2. Gather Student Opinions
Ask the students if they have any opinions about the question.
Encourage a range of responses, emphasising that it’s perfectly fine not to have a strong opinion yet. This will help gauge their initial understanding and feelings about the topic.
Encourage open discussion, allowing students to share what they think and why.
3. Draw the Tug of War Diagram
On the board, draw a large tug of war diagram, labelling one side “True” and the other “False.” Alternatively, you can tape a rope to the wall for a more interactive experience. Explain that students can contribute in two ways:
- Evidence: They can add pieces of evidence to either side using markers or post-it-notes. Encourage them to consider facts, statistics, or examples that support their side.
- Questions: They can also add questions about the tug of war itself – “What if we consider this perspective?” or “How would this change our understanding?” This helps deepen their analysis and critical thinking.
4. Reflect on New Ideas
Conclude the activity by facilitating a discussion on what new ideas emerged regarding the question of truth. Ask guiding questions like:
- “Can we make a decision based on what we’ve discussed?”
- “Do some people lean one way while others lean the other?”
- “Is there a gray area, where the answer might be true sometimes but not always?”
- “How might we settle this question if we had to?”
Encourage students to think critically about the complexity of truth and the nuances in their discussions.