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Definition
Students begin in pairs talking about a specific topic. Once every student has had a chance to share their ideas, the pair joins another pair. This continues until all students in the class in in a big group.This continues until the class as a whole is involved in a group discussion about the topic.
Variation
A variation of this could include implementing a silent form of communications for students who are uncomfortable with taking their ideas public with the class. Maybe allow for a written submission of ideas
Links to Lesson Plans
http://www.sciedu.ca/journal/index.php/wjel/article/view/2936/1855 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2OFj8Rh7eA https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=5826
Why Use
Pyramid discussions are useful for practicing a range of skills that your students would benefit from mastering, This list of skills includes learning how to respectfully agreeing and disagree with peers ideas, negotiating, summarizing, and going public with their argument. Students also learn from each other which promotes a classroom community.
Criticism
This discussion method can cause some children to have to step outside their comfort zone and share their ideas publicly with the class. You may need to find an alternative way for students to share their ideas for those who are unwilling to share publicly. This will make sure you account for all ideas in the classroom.