About this resource
This thinking challenge will be interesting for students. They should take the time to brainstorm ideas and then test their ideas on one another, seeing if they can communicate successfully. Encourage students to think outside the box, rather than just writing what they want to say down on paper. Students can compare and contrast ideas and then talk about the greater implications behind communicating without using their mouths. How could this translate to communicating with people from different cultures and languages?
Modifications for All Learners: Verbal and written directions should be given. Proposing a full conversation using one of the ideas students come up with may challenge students further.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Problem-Solving/Creativity/Critical Thinking
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
I. INQUIRE Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. B. Create - Learners engage with new knowledge by following a process that includes: 3. Generating products that illustrate learning.
I. INQUIRE Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. D. Grow - Learners participate in an ongoing inquiry-based process by: 2. Engaging in sustained inquiry.
Related STEM Area: Engineering, problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
What students will do
- Students will identify 5 different ways to communicate without opening their mouth.
- Students will think critically about how this could solve a problem/help individuals with a special need or disability.
- Students will discuss ideas with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and experimenting.
Resources Needed
Paper, pencils, whiteboards, other note taking/ brainstorming materials, various materials.
How learning is assessed
- Students have identified 5 different ways to communicate without opening your mouth.
- Students have compared thoughts about how this could solve a problem/help individuals with a special need or disability.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.