Teacher instructions: Divide the class into pairs. Give two pieces of paper to each student. Get students to sit with their backs to each other. They do not have to be touching, but close enough to be able to hear one another.

Give all students 1 minute to draw a simple picture on one piece of paper without showing their partner. This can include shapes, stick figures, patterns etc.

Next, students take it in turns to describe their picture to their partner. The partner needs to listen carefully and attempt to draw the exact same picture on to their piece of paper. Once both students have described their pictures, then they can evaluate their successes. As a whole class discussion, summarise what was needed to make that task successful.

Purpose of activity: To introduce the idea of active listening and discuss why listening to each other, following instructions and effective communication are important at Ellesmere College.