Learning to Give, Curriculum Division of The LEAGUE

Purpose:

• To teach the importance of asking questions and using two-way communication.

 

Activity:

1. Divide the group into pairs and explain that the partners will take turns giving instructions to each other. Ask each pair to identify one as A and one as B and have them stand or sit back to back. Pass out a drawing of diagram #1 to all the A’s and explain that “A’s” will give instructions to “B’s” so “B’s” can draw the diagram. The rules for the first round are:
   
   - No requests to repeat instructions.
   - No gestures of any type.
   - No drawing by the person who is describing.
   - Only words may be used to describe the diagram.
   
   
2. As A’s begin to describe the drawing, make sure the rules are followed, and allow a few minutes of drawing time, according to their speed and progress.
   
   
3. After the first drawing has been described, ask the group:
   
   - A’s, what was it like to describe the drawing? What rules made it hard?
   - B’s, what was frustrating for you?
   
   

4. Ask the group what could be done differently to help them. Record responses on flip chart. Many comments will have to do with the need for two-way communications.
   
   

5. Explain the next round: B will describe a new drawing to A with these rules:
   
   - Questions may be asked.
   - Instructions may be repeated.
   - Suggestions may be made about verbally giving the instructions.
   - No gestures of any type.
   - No drawing by the person who is describing.
   - Only words maybe used to describe the diagram.
   
   

6. After the group is finished drawing, ask them:
   
   - Was this round easier? Why?
   - Do you think the duo did better?
   - Were you more comfortable?
   
   

7. Ask partners to show drawings to each other to see how close they were with each drawing. Reproducing the drawings, handouts or flip chart is helpful.
   
   

8. Conclude by emphasizing the importance of two-way communication in groups. Point out how sometimes conflicts arise in groups because of simple misunderstandings that have no real foundation. Such conflicts are rooted in people using different words to describe the same idea. Two way communication — asking clarifying questions, giving feedback and listening — allows individuals to clarify their thinking and overcome disagreements.

 

Variations/Options:

1. One person gives instructions to entire group in each round with the same instructions as above: round one, one-way communications and round two, two-way communication. The facilitator should choose the person to give instructions. A person with poor communication skills can be embarrassed by giving instructions.
   
   
2. Instead of a drawing, participants can make “snowflakes” by folding and tearing paper. Ask pairs to sit back to back while A describes step-by-step to B how to make the snowflake.