I Disagree

Goal

Resources

• Paper or whiteboard
• Pen/Marker
• Handout (Letter Size) click to download
• Handout (A4 Size) click to download
• Activity Instruction Sheet (optional) click to download

Instructions

1. Sit in a circle, and together, brainstorm a series of statements that could be true or creative/imaginary such as, “An island in the Pacific Ocean is home to a green hippo,” or “My Uncle was the President.” Write them on the board or paper.
   
2. Take turns so each person gets to be speaker. The speaker says one of the statements (as if it’s true, even if it’s imaginary).
   
3. Others around the circle raise their hands, and the speaker will call on one at a time to practice respectful disagreement.  The person called up will assert their own different view in a way that shows respect for the speaker and also asserts a differing point of view.

Rotate until all have had a chance to participate.

Discussion

• How did you feel when you disagreed with the speaker?
• How did you feel when someone disagreed with you?
• Most of us have encountered criticism or disagreements that were disrespectful. What made this experience different?
• Do you tend to assert your disagreement or not? If so, when do you choose to assert yourself?
• Did you learn any new ways to communicate disagreement for the future? What were they?

Activity Source