What is it:The teacher starts with a thought-provoking question on any topic, followed by a fictional answer and then the real scientific explanation. Students brainstorm possible answers, discuss their reasoning, and evaluate which explanation is more convincing. Through reflection, they learn to recognize the difference between plausible-sounding ideas and factual knowledge. For example, the topic could be animal features (Why are flamingos pink?), but the same approach can be applied to many other subjects.
Steps:
- Present a thought-provoking question.
- Let students brainstorm possible answers.
- Provide the first explanation (fictional or scientific — students do not know which it is).
- Ask whether this answer seems correct and why.
- Provide the second explanation (the other perspective) and repeat the discussion.
- Compare both explanations and reflect on which is more credible.
- Emphasize the importance of critical evaluation; when repeating the activity, alternate which explanation comes first.