No.265
Back-to-Back Drawing
Japanese name: 背中合わせお絵かき
You can scroll an enlarged diagram from side to side. Press again to return to its original size.
Diagram key
- A
- Describe in words.
- B
- Person describing
- C
- Person drawing
Materials
- Paper and a pen for each person
- A screen, or chairs arranged back to back
- A timer
How to play
- Sit so partners cannot see each other’s paper. Choose an explainer and a drawer. The explainer prepares a simple picture made from circles, triangles and squares.
- Only the explainer sees the picture and describes the shapes, numbers and positions in words. The drawer follows the explanation without asking questions for the first 2 minutes.
- Compare the drawings and identify similarities and differences. Do not rank drawing skill.
- Swap roles and use a new picture for 2 minutes. This time the drawer may ask questions. Compare how communication differs from the first round.
- Each person shares one helpful expression. Use shared reference points, such as “the top right of the paper” or “half the size of the circle”.
Ways to adapt
Older primary children can participate with an adult facilitator. Allow extra time for planning and practising explanations.