Activity Overview
Discussion storyboards are a great way to get your students talking about their ideas in Science. They allow students to critique and evaluate different viewpoints without upsetting other students. This activity can be used at the start of the topic to elicit any misconceptions students may have.
At first, show students a discussion storyboard like the one below. Ask them to look at the problem on the discussion storyboard. It shows four students who all have an idea about the problem in front of them. Students should think about who they think is the most correct and be prepared to explain why that person is correct.
Here are some other ideas use these discussion storyboards in your lessons.
- Students add another cell on the end of the example you’ve given them to explain who they think is correct and why.
- Students create their own discussion storyboards to share with peers on the current topic.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Read the discussion storyboard that shows four students who all have an idea about the problem in front of them. You are going to give your opinion on who you think is correct and explain why.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Add another cell at the end of the row.
- Use text and images to explain who you think is correct and why.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who do you think is correct? | You have selected a person you believe to be correct and explained why. | You have selected the person you believe to be correct. | You have not selected a person you believe to be correct. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Discussion storyboards are a great way to get your students talking about their ideas in Science. They allow students to critique and evaluate different viewpoints without upsetting other students. This activity can be used at the start of the topic to elicit any misconceptions students may have.
At first, show students a discussion storyboard like the one below. Ask them to look at the problem on the discussion storyboard. It shows four students who all have an idea about the problem in front of them. Students should think about who they think is the most correct and be prepared to explain why that person is correct.
Here are some other ideas use these discussion storyboards in your lessons.
- Students add another cell on the end of the example you’ve given them to explain who they think is correct and why.
- Students create their own discussion storyboards to share with peers on the current topic.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Read the discussion storyboard that shows four students who all have an idea about the problem in front of them. You are going to give your opinion on who you think is correct and explain why.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Add another cell at the end of the row.
- Use text and images to explain who you think is correct and why.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who do you think is correct? | You have selected a person you believe to be correct and explained why. | You have selected the person you believe to be correct. | You have not selected a person you believe to be correct. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Chemical Reactions Discussion Storyboard
How to Facilitate Meaningful Peer Feedback with Chemical Reactions Storyboards
Encourage students to review each other's storyboard explanations and provide constructive feedback based on evidence from the lesson. This helps students deepen their understanding and refine their scientific reasoning.
Set Clear Guidelines for Peer Review
Explain your expectations for respectful, helpful comments before students begin. Model sample feedback that focuses on ideas, not individuals, to build a positive classroom culture.
Pair or Group Students Thoughtfully
Assign partners or small groups that mix ability levels so everyone has a chance to learn from different perspectives. Rotate pairs or groups across activities to foster collaboration.
Provide Sentence Starters for Feedback
Offer prompts such as “I agree with your explanation because…” or “Have you considered…” to help students give specific, meaningful feedback that supports learning.
Reflect on and Revise Storyboards
Ask students to review the feedback they receive and make improvements to their storyboards. This step reinforces the value of peer review in the learning process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chemical Reactions Discussion Storyboard
What is a discussion storyboard for teaching chemical reactions?
A discussion storyboard is a visual activity where students review different viewpoints about a science problem—like chemical reactions. Students analyze each perspective, choose who they think is most correct, and explain their reasoning, encouraging critical thinking and respectful discussion.
How do I use discussion storyboards to address misconceptions about chemical reactions?
Use discussion storyboards at the start of a unit to uncover student misconceptions. Present a scenario with multiple opinions, then ask students to pick who they agree with and justify their choice. This exposes misunderstandings and sparks meaningful classroom conversations.
What are some easy ways students can create their own discussion storyboards in science class?
Students can make their own storyboards by choosing a science problem, illustrating different viewpoints, and adding cells to explain their thinking. Digital tools or simple drawings work—let students present and discuss with peers for interactive learning.
How can I modify a blank discussion storyboard template for my chemistry lesson?
After copying the blank template, add a relevant chemical reaction problem and four possible student solutions. Adjust the difficulty and context to match your students’ needs, and encourage them to add their own cell to explain their reasoning.
Why are discussion storyboards effective for group work in middle and high school science?
Discussion storyboards promote collaborative thinking and respectful debate. They help students verbalize their ideas, consider different perspectives, and build confidence in scientific reasoning—making them ideal for group science activities in grades 6–12.
More Storyboard That Activities
Chemical Reactions
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