Teaching toolkit
Fishbowl
A small inner circle discusses while the outer circle observes with a clear task. Discussion skills are practiced and reflected on. With an empty chair, anyone can join at any time.
How the method works
- 1
Arrange an inner circle (4 to 6 chairs, with one left empty) and an outer circle.
- 2
Clarify the discussion prompt and rules; give the outer circle observation sheets.
- 3
The inner circle discusses; anyone in the outer circle who wants to contribute takes the empty chair.
- 4
After the discussion: The outer circle gives structured feedback (arguments, discussion behavior).
- 5
Gemeinsame Reflexion: Was macht eine gute Diskussion aus?
Material
- Discussion prompt
- Observation sheet
You can find free, ready-made worksheets for the work phase in the TeachPie Marketplace , sorted by subject and grade, in three levels.
Common pitfalls in practice
- The outer circle needs a specific observation task
Variants
- Midway switch: the inner and outer circles switch completely halfway through.
- Expert fishbowl: The inner circle represents prepared roles or positions.
In TeachPie, the planning AI suggests Fishbowl automatically when it fits the phase, timing, and class, including ready-to-use materials.