WHAT IS 6 THINKING HATS?
Six Thinking Hats was written by Dr. Edward de Bono. "Six Thinking Hats" and the associated idea of parallel thinking provide a means for groups to plan thinking processes in a detailed and cohesive way and in doing so to think together more effectively (Wikipedia contributors, 2023).
EXAMPLES
ACTIVITY TIME
Students will be divided into 6 groups:
White Hat Group
Task: Research and list facts about different food groups and their health benefits.
Step 1: Assign roles within the group (researcher, writer, presenter).
Step 2: Use provided books, internet resources and classroom materials to gather information on food groups (vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, dairy).
Step 3: Compile a list of facts, ensuring to include at least three key benefits for each food group.
Step 4: Summarize the information gathered using a graphic organizer. Draw it on a mahjong paper using markers.
Step 5: Prepare a brief presentation to share findings with the class.
Red Hat Group
Task: Discuss and express feelings about healthy and unhealthy foods.
Step 1: Assign roles within the group (discussion leader, note-taker, artist).
Step 2: Discuss how different foods make each member feel, both physically and emotionally.
Step 3: Use markers and mahjong paper to create a visual representation of these feelings, categorizing foods into “healthy” and “unhealthy”.
Step 4: Draw and write emotional responses (e.g., happy, energetic, sluggish) next to each food item on the poster.
Step 5: Prepare a brief presentation to share the poster and discussion points with the class.
Black Hat Group
Task: Identify potential problems with unhealthy eating habits.
Step 1: Assign roles within the group (researcher, writer, presenter).
Step 2: Discuss and list potential risks and negative impacts of unhealthy eating (e.g., obesity, heart disease, low energy).
Step 3: Use books, internet resources and classroom materials to find supporting information.
Step 4: Create a tree map outlining these risks and problems.
Step 5: Prepare a brief presentation to share the findings with the class.
Yellow Hat Group
Task: Highlight the benefits of eating a balanced diet.
Step 1: Assign roles within the group (researcher, writer, presenter).
Step 2: Discuss and list the positive outcomes of healthy eating (e.g., improved energy, better concentration, strong immune system).
Step 3: Use markers and mahjong paper to create a mind map of these benefits.
Step 4: Make sure to include at least five key benefits.
Step 5: Prepare a brief presentation to share the poster with the class.
Green Hat Group
Task: Think of creative ways to promote healthy eating in the school.
Step 1: Assign roles within the group (brainstorm facilitator, note-taker, artist).
Step 2: Brainstorm ideas for promoting healthy eating (e.g., healthy recipe contests, posters, school garden).
Step 3: Select the best ideas and create a poster.
Step 4: Use art supplies to create promotional materials.
Step 5: Prepare a brief presentation to share the idea with the class.
Blue Hat Group
Task: Monitor the process and ensure each group stays on task.
Step 1: Assign roles within the group (timekeeper, task monitor, summarizer).
Step 2: Visit each group to observe their progress, ensuring they are on task and have the necessary materials.
Step 3: Record notes on each group’s progress and any challenges they encounter.
Step 4: Prepare a short and simple summary report of the group activities.
Step 5: Share the summary report with the class and offer constructive feedback.
Time Allotment: 50 minutes