The document outlines a classroom activity called "Big Paper Activity" where students are divided into groups and given a large piece of chart paper. Each group is assigned a different discussion question written on their chart paper. Students silently write their own responses to the question as well as comments responding to other students' answers. They then rotate to other groups' papers to continue the written discussion. Finally, they reconvene to their original paper to review comments and silently debate questions before sharing with the class. The activity aims to give every student a voice through a written, silent group discussion format.

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Big Paper Activity
Give Every Student a Voice

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Preparation Step 1

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Write a series of questions that you
want students to consider

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Preparation
Form a group of 3 or 4
 Move your desks into discussion formation
 Send one group member to the front to
obtain the following:
 4 different colored markers (distribute to the group)
 1 piece of chart paper (put in the middle of your desks
with the question face down)
Remember
 Do not discuss the question or write on the paper yet

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Part I
Comment on your own big paper
 Silently turn over the chart paper
 Each group has a different question written on the chart paper
 All group members must silently read the question
 Silently respond to the question in writing
 Remember, your response is your opinion (here is no right or wrong answer)
 Each student is to comment on the question
 Group members will silently respond to their group members’ answers in writing
 Responses can address the question or ask another related question
 You can draw lines connecting questions/comments to other questions/comments
 Essentially, you are to conduct a written conversation
 Remember
 More than one student can be writing at the same time
 All communication should be in writing. No talking!!!

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Part II
Comment on other big papers
With your group rotate to another discussion
group.
Read the question on their chart paper
Using your markers build on the conversation
already there
Remember
Still no talking!

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Part III
Return to your own big paper
Return to your chart paper
You may now break your silence
Look at any comments on your paper written
by others
As a group identify one or two questions or
comments that stand out to you
Be prepared to share with the class

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Part IV
Class discussion
 Debrief
 Thoughts?
Questions?
Reflection on having a silent conversation