1:1:1 Brainstorming

Activity duration: 25 minutes

Brainstorming is a creative way to generate a variety of ideas, concepts, or solutions. It works by coming up with as many random, radical and innovative ideas and suggestions as possible, individually or within a group or class situation. This process is about recording every idea within a given time limit. It is a means of creating a new way of thinking about a particular topic. It is important to value and record all suggestions during the brainstorming stage. Ideas should only be evaluated once the brainstorming session has finished.

Resources: 1 large sheet of paper per group (or printable template), marker pens.

How to brainstorm:

1. Outline the rules for brainstorming, stressing the importance of no criticism of any given suggestions.
2. Let pupils know there will be time to debate each suggestion at the conclusion of the session.
3. Appoint a leader/recorder within each group.
4. Either individually, within small groups, or as a class (depending on the nature of the subject) give pupils 5-15 minutes to generate as many topic ideas or things about the topic they will be researching.
5. Sometimes it may be helpful to use a visual reminder to place in the middle of the group to remind them that any negative comments are not welcome.

After this session pupils may like to select 5 ideas the group likes most. This could be achieved as follows:

1. Each member gives 5 ideas a score of 1 to 5 points (5 being the most important idea, 1 the least important idea).
2. Once the members have made their choices add up the scores.
3. The idea with the highest score will best suit being incorporated into the research. Each group should keep a record of the other best ideas in case the ‘best’ idea turns out to be unworkable.
4. Follow with a discussion of the main ideas generated. Pupils could also discuss the relevance of incorporating the others ideas at this stage. This will be further extended in the next mind mapping section.

	Click here to download a printable version of a brainstorming template for groups. This can be printed out and enlarged to help pupils generate ideas.
	Click here to download a printable version of a brainstorming template for individuals. This can be printed out, and enlarged, if required, to help pupils generate ideas.

For more information on brainstorming check out:

• Mind Tools: www.mindtools.com/brainstm.html
• Free Brainstorming Training: www.brainstorming.co.uk/tutorials/tutorialcontents.html
• Graphic Organizers: www.graphic.org/goindex.html