Which strategy is primarily a speaking/listening approach used to support discourse and debate?

Which strategy is primarily a speaking/listening approach used to support discourse and debate?

• A. Take a Stand
• B. Send a Question
• C. Fishbowl
• D. K-W-L

Answer: (C)

This item tests a discussion format that centers on speaking and listening as the engine of argument and back-and-forth exchange. Fishbowl is that format: a small inner circle talks in depth about a topic while the outer circle listens attentively and records ideas, then roles switch. This setup creates authentic discourse, because students must articulate ideas clearly, defend them with reasoning, respond to peers, and build on what others say. The act of moving from listening to speaking and back again mirrors real debates, helping students practice turn-taking, evidence-based argument, and responsive listening in a structured way. Other strategies can involve talking or exploring ideas, but they don’t provide the same built-in structure for sustained, reciprocal discussion. Take a Stand focuses on taking a position and arguing it, which is valuable but not inherently a live, rotating discourse format. Send a Question centers on inquiry prompts and clarifications rather than a sustained dialogue. K-W-L guides prior knowledge and learning goals rather than fostering ongoing oral discussion and debate.

This item tests a discussion format that centers on speaking and listening as the engine of argument and back-and-forth exchange. Fishbowl is that format: a small inner circle talks in depth about a topic while the outer circle listens attentively and records ideas, then roles switch. This setup creates authentic discourse, because students must articulate ideas clearly, defend them with reasoning, respond to peers, and build on what others say. The act of moving from listening to speaking and back again mirrors real debates, helping students practice turn-taking, evidence-based argument, and responsive listening in a structured way.

Other strategies can involve talking or exploring ideas, but they don’t provide the same built-in structure for sustained, reciprocal discussion. Take a Stand focuses on taking a position and arguing it, which is valuable but not inherently a live, rotating discourse format. Send a Question centers on inquiry prompts and clarifications rather than a sustained dialogue. K-W-L guides prior knowledge and learning goals rather than fostering ongoing oral discussion and debate.