Embedded Files
Inside-Outside Circle
Inside-Outside Circle
What is Inside-Outside Circle?
What is Inside-Outside Circle?
Inside-Outside Circle is a discussion technique that gives students the opportunity to respond to questions and/or discuss information with a variety of peers in a structured manner. Students form two concentric circles and exchange information with a partner until the teacher signals the outer circle to move in one direction, giving each student a new peer to talk to.
Why use Inside-Outside Circle?
Why use Inside-Outside Circle?
This is a great tool for allowing students to gain different ideas and perspectives of any given topic, as well as actively encouraging community building among students. A couple other benefits are that some students may find it safe or easier to enter into a discussion with another classmate rather than with the entire class. Also, there is no specific materials needed for this strategy, so it can be easily incorporated into lessons.
How to Use Inside/Outside Circle in the Classroom
How to Use Inside/Outside Circle in the Classroom
During this strategy, students form two different circles: half of the group stands in a circle facing outward while the other half forms a circle around them facing inward, rotating whenever the teacher cues.
Students in either circle have quick, one on one exchanges with different students in a short amount of time, which is good for trading tips, examples and information.
The teacher then poses a question for students and gives them time (usually about 30 seconds) to think of a response. The students then share their responses with their partners, who are standing directly across from them.
On the teachers signal, the outside circle moves one step to the left/right and discusses the same question with a new partner.
Recommended prompts from the My Name, My Identity Campaign:
Recommended prompts from the My Name, My Identity Campaign:
What is your name?
How do you pronounce your name?
How do you spell your name?
Do you have a nickname?
What are different names people have called you?
What name do you prefer to be called at school?
Video Example
Video Example
Gave it a try? Great! Tell us how it went and be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a prize!
Gave it a try? Great! Tell us how it went and be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a prize!
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