The move
Students move to the corner that matches their answer, build their best argument with the group there, then share it with the room.
See how it works
At a glance
- Time in class
- 8–10 minutes
- Prep
- 2 minutes: write four positions on four sheets of paper (or A, B, C, D).
- Materials
- Four signs, tape
- Grouping
- Four groups, chosen by opinion
- Use it when
- A question has more than one defensible answer
Why it works
Choosing a corner makes every student commit to an answer. Talking with like-minded classmates helps them build an argument, and hearing the other corners pushes them to weigh evidence. The movement also wakes up a sleepy room.
Step by step
In class: about 8–9 min
- 1Post the question and corners30 seconds
- 2Think30 seconds
- 3Move30 seconds
- 4Build3 minutes
- 5Share2–3 minutes
- 6Switch option1 minute
- Post the question and corners30 seconds“Read the four positions. Decide on your own first. No following friends.”
- Think30 secondsStudents jot their choice and one reason.
- Move30 seconds“Go to your corner.”
- Build3 minutes“With your corner, agree on your single best reason and choose a speaker.”
- Share2–3 minutesEach corner’s speaker gets 30 seconds.
- Switch option1 minute“Anyone convinced? Move now, and tell us why.”
See it in action
“Which animal would be the best class pet? Fish, hamster, turtle, rabbit.”
“Which invention changed daily life most? Electricity, cars, phones, the internet.”
“Was the main cause of WWI alliances, militarism, imperialism or nationalism?”
Watch out for
- One empty corner: that’s fine; you can argue for it yourself.
- Friends clumping: require the written choice before moving.
- Shallow reasons: ask “What’s your evidence?”
Level up
- After hearing the others, anyone can switch corners and explain why.
- Each corner must rebut one other corner’s argument.
Make it work for everyone
- Multilingual learners: add a picture to each sign.
- IEP and 504 supports: students with mobility needs can hold up an A/B/C/D card from their seat.
Tech option
Show the four positions on a slide in case signs fall down.
Resources
Pairs well with
Reflect
Did any student switch corners, and what convinced them?
Evidence
Practice-basedFour Corners is a widely used discussion routine. It draws on the same ideas as Change My Mind (G1): committing to an answer, then discussing it with peers.