Dilemma thinking

“Dilemma thinking” activity develops critical thinking and empathy in students aged 6 to 10. During the exercise, pupils work in pairs or small groups to analyze a realistic and meaningful dilemma, such as weighing the pros and cons of living near a volcano. Students make deliberate choices, articulate their reasoning, and justify decisions with evidence. This collaborative exercise encourages children to evaluate multiple perspectives and respect diverse viewpoints during class discussions..

Skill focus

Primary Skill Focus

  • Critical thinking

Complementary/Secondary Skill Focus

  • Empathy 
Age groupStudent numberDuration
6-10 years oldIndividual or whole class working in pairs or small groups50-100 minutes

Proposed step by step implementation of the learning activity

  1. Introduction to the theme and giving the dilemma.
  2. giving content
  3. thinking activity in small groups and making a decision
  4. class discussion. Each group presents their opinion and arguments. Encourage a variety of viewpoints.
  5. Reflection on thinking