Four Corners

What is it?
Four Corners requires students to show their stance on a certain topic or statement
(strongly disagree, disagree, agree, strongly disagree) by standing in the
corresponding corner of the room. This activity requires each student to take a
position. It can then open up the room to conversation about the particular topic or
statement.
How does it work?
I.

II.

III.

Preparation
a. Label the four corners of the room with signs: strongly disagree,
disagree, agree, strongly agree)
b. In each corner, secure a large whiteboard or large piece of butcher
paper as well as writing utensils (for Graffiti Boards).
c. Generate a warm-up list of statements, such as:
i. Students should get more recess
ii. There should be no homework in elementary school
iii. Classes should go on more field trips
d. Actual statement for discussion: Our school should create a school
garden.
Warm-up statements
a. Show one statement at a time
b. Allow students 30-60 seconds to think about their opinion. At the end
of the time, instruct them to go to the corresponding corner.
c. Give students opportunity to discuss their opinions with their group (no
more than 2 minutes)
d. Ask 1-2 students from each group why they chose their side
Four Corners Discussion
a. Display statement: Our school should create a school garden.
b. Allow students 1-2 minutes to think about their opinion. At the end of
the time, instruct them to go to the corresponding corner.
c. Give students about 5 minutes to discuss their thoughts with their likeminded group.
d. Ask students to share why they chose their position.