Beat the Barrier

When we co-operate and help each other, good things can happen! This game requires pairs to work together and communicate clearly.

Instructions

The aim of the game is for one team member (the Talker) to accurately describe a pattern that has shapes of different sizes. The other team member (the Listener) must draw the pattern based solely on the description they are given – they cannot look at the pattern. The winning team is the one with the drawing that looks most like the original.

• Use the ten Pattern Boards by clicking here, or make your own using the templates provided. Copy enough Pattern Boards for half the class.
• Arrange the class into pairs (either chosen by pupils or random). Each pair will need scrap paper and pens / pencils for the Listener to draw with.
• Pairs sit back to back.
• Hand out the pattern boards face down.
• On "Go", the Talker looks at their Pattern Board and describes the pattern as clearly and simply as possible to the Listener who tries to redraw what is being described. The teacher can decide if the Listeners are allowed to ask clarifying questions if they are unsure of what the Talker is describing.
• On "Stop" (the teacher can set a time limit if desired), the team members compare the drawing with the original pattern.
• Repeat as many times as you like!

Afterwards

Discuss with your class:

• What made it difficult to draw?
• What instructions really helped?
• How did it feel being the talker?
• How did it feel being the drawer?