In one version of this activity, Partner A has the general problem on a card, and Partner B has the information needed to solve it on the  "data card." Data cards can also contain diagrams, tables, graphs, etc. Partner A needs to realize what is needed and ask for the information that is provided on Partner B's data card. Partner B should not share information unless Partner A specifically asks for it. Neither partner should read their cards to one another nor show their cards to their partners. As they work the problem, they justify their response using clear and connected language. 

1. Read, then Think-Aloud: The problem card partner (Partner A) reads his or her card silently and thinks aloud about what information is needed. Partner B reads the data card silently. 

2. Question 1: Partner B asks, "What specific information do you need?" Partner A needs to ask for specific information from Partner B.

3. Question 2: When Partner A asks, Partner B should ask for justification: "Why do you need to know that information?" before telling it to Partner A.

4. Explanations: Partner A then explains how he or she is using the information to solve the problem. Partner B helps and asks for explanations, even if he or she understands what Partner A is doing. 

5. Follow-up:  As a follow-up step, have both students use blank cards to write their own similar problem and data card for other pairs to use.