Visual Ranking

The Visual Ranking Tool supports the thinking that is associated with creating and sorting lists. Lists are common data and time management tools. Organizing a list requires the ability to prioritize based on specific criteria. Ranking items on a list requires critical thinking that includes analyzing the situation and evaluating items in terms of relevant criteria.

Implementation

1. Master how to use the Visual Ranking tool before introducing it to students.

2. Ask students to rank a list from its first stage to its final stage.

· An assessment piece could be their written explanation of the changes that occurred.

Classroom Management

1. Require team members to agree on the position of each item in the ordered list.

· This promotes discussion and negotiation about individual preferences.

2. Have student teams sort the list using different criteria or viewpoints.

· For example, attitudes of people from different eras or countries could be the salient viewpoints.

3. Students should record the reasons for their sorting decisions.

4. After students have made their lists, they should compare and discuss why their rankings differ.

5. Pair teams with widely divergent results.

· Have them exchange lists to speculate about possible causes for any observed differences.