This is a fun activity (using balloons always is) used during exam practice for long answer questions such as the QWC questions (quality of written communication) or indeed past papers.
Students work collaboratively in groups to answer the extended questions. If the students require support they may pop a balloon off the board. Inside each ballon is a hint or part of the markscheme to assist the students answer the question. The balloons are differentiated, the green contain minor glues whereas the red contain more detailed support.
The price of popping the balloons and being rewarded with assistance also comes with a deduction in the marks available for the question. This is to encourage the students to use other resources such as their exercise book, revision guide and each other before seeking teacher support. The different coloured balloons relate to different marks deducted, green -0.5, orange -1, and red -2. The students have to think strategically and decide whether to pop one or more of each colour, or any, in order to maximise their overall score. There is a limited number of balloons available and the hints inside cannot be shared between groups. This is another consideration for the students whether to pop a balloon early or take the risk of not having any balloons left.
Students work collaboratively in groups to answer the extended questions. If the students require support they may pop a balloon off the board. Inside each ballon is a hint or part of the markscheme to assist the students answer the question. The balloons are differentiated, the green contain minor glues whereas the red contain more detailed support.
The price of popping the balloons and being rewarded with assistance also comes with a deduction in the marks available for the question. This is to encourage the students to use other resources such as their exercise book, revision guide and each other before seeking teacher support. The different coloured balloons relate to different marks deducted, green -0.5, orange -1, and red -2. The students have to think strategically and decide whether to pop one or more of each colour, or any, in order to maximise their overall score. There is a limited number of balloons available and the hints inside cannot be shared between groups. This is another consideration for the students whether to pop a balloon early or take the risk of not having any balloons left.
This activity enhances team work within each group and encourages independent learning. The students can use any strategy available to them such as discussing the questions between their group, using exercise and text books or Google to find the answer before seeking assistance from the balloons.The activity is treated as a game increasing the students engagement and motivation in what can be a dry task.
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