You and Three of Your Classmates Have Created a List of Possible Topics for Your Assignment

You and Three of Your Classmates Have Created a List of Possible Topics for Your AssignmentThe title of this article might seem like a strange one but it is in fact a very accurate description of the questions that you and your classmates will be asking each other throughout the semester. During your first session you can certainly ask many questions about the course itself but once you've had a chance to look at the syllabus, be sure to take a few minutes to reflect on your own talents and interests. Have a question that you think others may be interested in and put it forward as an essay topic.There are two parts to this question and answer exercise. First, what can you and your classmates do to create a list of possible topics for the assignment? This is a question that can generate a whole range of conversation. Here are some ideas that might spring to mind:While some students like to get right to the point, other students prefer to linger on topics that are more sensitive. These topics can include race relations, religious freedom, religion in schools, or gender discrimination. While there is not any one way to approach such topics, there are different approaches. You may choose to write a brief summary of a book or newspaper article that discusses the topic. Alternatively, you may consider summarizing a related essay on your own, if the topic interests you.Even if you, and your classmates, feel that this topic is a good one to explore, there is still a huge potential for debate. For instance, could you offer an opinion on this matter? How would your classmates react to that question? Do you have any preconceived notions that might prevent you from sharing that opinion?As you can see, there is a lot of room for student involvement in the classroom discussion. Of course, it is equally important to keep in mind that as a faculty member you may not be able to offer your students specific advice or suggestions as a means of managing the discussion.Of course, y our classmates may not necessarily be interested in this assignment. In this case, there is a big chance that you may be able to guide your students to ask you about specific subjects that they are curious about.Questions about class policy are also easy to discuss. If a group believes that a particular policy is not fair, they may want to ask you. You can either answer their question in your own words or in what you think is a way that will allow you to answer the question.Finally, questions about a teacher's performance should always be considered. You and your classmates might be able to bring forth evidence to support your claim, so be prepared to answer that question.