Written Thoughts
On an open question everyone writes ideas — one per slip, said out loud and put in the middle, until the time is up. Then the group sorts the pile: what belongs together, and what is that group called?
Time
5–7 min
Form
In small groups
Phase
Activate · Check
Materials
LudensFlow basic kit · Classroom basics
Step-by-step instructions
4 steps · 5–7 min
- Form groups — 90 seconds
Form groups of four around one table. Loose slips of paper and pens in the middle, within everyone's reach. - Write and put down — 3 minutes
Show the question. Everyone writes one idea per slip, says it out loud and puts it in the middle — and takes the next straight away. Everyone at once, no discussing, but do listen: what somebody else says gives you the next idea. - Sort and discuss — 3 minutes
The group puts together what belongs together and gives every group a name. In the settings you can choose “pick the top 3” instead: the group picks the three strongest ideas and says why. - Share with the class — 2 minutes
Two or three groups tell which groups they made (or which top 3). The rest add what has not been said.
Tips for the facilitator
Writing ideas down — everyone at once
Quiet thinkers take part in full
Brainstorm or activating prior knowledge
Every idea visible on the table
Separate sheets of paper or sticky notes — enough for all participants.
Pens for each group member.
One sheet — one idea: this makes them easier to sort.
Writing time per question — configure this in the settings (default 120 seconds).
Discussion time per question — configure this in the settings (default 120 seconds).
Optional: category titles for sorting — prepare in advance or determine together with the group.
With categories: the facilitator determines sorting themes in advance — the group distributes the sheets across categories.
Without sorting: simply read all ideas aloud and discuss — for shorter sessions.
With prioritisation: after sorting, each participant places a dot or mark on the most important idea.
Anonymous: sheets without names — reduces social pressure and encourages more honest responses.
Natural sciences: «Name as many forms of renewable energy as possible».
Social studies: «What arguments are there in favour of nuclear energy?»
Citizenship education: «What are the characteristics of democracy?»
Training and teams: collecting ideas, expectations or challenges at the start of a session.
The activity is known as Brainwriting or Written Round Robin. Unlike a classic brainstorm, the written format gives equal space to everyone — both extroverts and those who think more slowly or feel uncomfortable speaking aloud.
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