Scale questions is an activity for groups in which group members can share their views and opinions on certain topic(s). They can connect the topic to their personal experiences and share them with the group. They can see where others stand regarding the topic. Through activity they get to know each other better. The activity is useful to open up topics and group discussions.
No materials are needed. For the activity to be clearer you can paste or draw a line on the floor and put + and – signs on the sides of it (with masking tape or chalk).
Time: 30 minutes (It can be shortened or extended depending on the group size and number of statements. Give 5 minutes to discuss each statement.)
Group size: 10 – 30 participants
Step-by-step
1 – Explain to participants that you will tell them certain statements and they need to place themselves on the line in the room depending on how much they agree or disagree with the statement. Show them where in the room they should place themselves if they completely agree with it and where if they completely disagree. Explain that they can also stand anywhere in between.
2 – Say the statement and wait for participants to place themselves according to the level of (dis)agreement.
3 – Ask a few of the participants (3 – 5) why they are standing where they are standing. Encourage them to share personal experiences connected to the statement. Allow space for comments.
4 – Say the next statement and repeat the procedure.
Examples of statements:
- I most of the time understand the languages that are being spoken around me (in different situations – home, job, public space …).
- I had problems communicating in the official institutions because of the language.
- Slovene courses are fairly accessible.
- I feel that I am treated differently because I am a foreigner.
- I feel that I am treated differently because of my skin colour.
- I faced no problems integrating into Slovenian society.
- I feel that a part of my identity is lost when I need to communicate in non-expert languages.
- I was in a social situation with the people I know and they only spoke Slovene.
- I feel comfortable expressing myself when I don’t understand something.
- I feel people are making an effort when communicating with me.
- People are interested in my culture.
- I feel left out when cultural references are used and not explained.
Tips:
- Tell participants they don’t need to participate in any part of the activity if they do not feel comfortable doing it.
- Encourage participants to share their stories during the activity.
