This or That questions are simple yet powerful tools for classroom engagement, icebreaking, and sparking meaningful conversations among students. This list covers ten creative and effective This or That question ideas designed specifically for educators looking to energize their classrooms, encourage participation, and build rapport across diverse age groups and subjects.
Classic This or That Icebreaker
The Classic This or That Icebreaker involves asking students to choose between two contrasting options, such as “Cats or Dogs?” or “Summer or Winter?” This activity is a great way to start the school day or a new unit, helping students learn about each other’s preferences while fostering a relaxed and friendly classroom atmosphere. It requires no materials and can be adapted to virtually any grade level.
Subject-Specific This or That Questions
Tailoring This or That questions to the subject matter deepens student engagement and reinforces learning. For example, in a science class, you might ask, “Planets or Stars?” or “Renewable Energy or Fossil Fuels?” This approach not only sparks curiosity but also helps students connect personally with the content, making abstract concepts more relatable and memorable.
Debate-Style This or That
This variation encourages critical thinking by having students defend their choice between two options, such as “Books or E-books?” or “City Life or Country Life?” It promotes respectful discussion and helps students practice articulating their opinions clearly. This format is ideal for middle and high school classrooms aiming to build communication and reasoning skills.
Movement-Based This or That
Incorporating physical activity, this method asks students to move to different sides of the room based on their choice, like “Chocolate or Vanilla?” Students physically demonstrate their preferences, which energizes the class and supports kinesthetic learners. It’s particularly effective for younger students or when transitioning between lessons to re-energize the group.
Writing Prompt This or That
Using This or That questions as writing prompts encourages deeper reflection and creativity. For instance, asking “Mountains or Beaches?” can lead students to write descriptive paragraphs or short essays explaining their choice. This technique strengthens writing skills while allowing students to explore personal interests in a structured way.
Team-Building This or That
In team-building exercises, This or That questions help groups find common ground or celebrate differences. Questions like “Board Games or Video Games?” can be used to form teams or spark conversations that build trust and camaraderie. These activities are especially helpful at the start of the school year or during group projects.
Language Learning This or That
For language learners, This or That questions can practice vocabulary and sentence structure. Asking “Coffee or Tea?” in the target language encourages students to formulate simple sentences and practice pronunciation. This method can be adapted for beginner to advanced levels and makes language practice interactive and fun.
Digital This or That Polls
Using technology, teachers can create digital polls with This or That questions via platforms like Kahoot or Poll Everywhere. This allows instant feedback and anonymous participation, which can increase honesty and engagement. Digital polls are especially useful for large classes or remote learning environments.
Emotion-Focused This or That
This version targets social-emotional learning by prompting students to choose between feelings or coping strategies, such as “Calm or Excited?” or “Talk it Out or Write it Down?” It helps students recognize and communicate emotions, fostering empathy and self-awareness in a supportive classroom culture.
Creative Art-Based This or That
In art classes or creative settings, This or That questions can guide projects or inspire creativity. For example, “Abstract or Realistic?” or “Bright Colors or Pastels?” can help students make artistic decisions and express their personal style. This approach encourages experimentation and confidence in artistic choices.
How to Choose
Selecting the right This or That questions depends on your classroom goals, age group, and subject matter. For younger students, movement-based or simple preference questions work best to keep energy high and attention focused. Older students benefit from debate-style or subject-specific questions that challenge critical thinking. Consider your class size and whether you want to encourage discussion, writing, or physical activity. Also, be mindful of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity when crafting options to ensure all students feel comfortable participating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can This or That questions be used for assessment?
While primarily engagement tools, This or That questions can serve as informal assessments to gauge student interests and prior knowledge but shouldn’t replace formal evaluations.
How often should I use This or That questions?
Incorporating them once or twice a week is effective for maintaining engagement without becoming repetitive.
Are This or That questions appropriate for all age groups?
Yes, but the complexity and content should be tailored to the students’ developmental levels.
Can This or That questions be adapted for virtual classrooms?
Absolutely. Digital polls and chat responses work well for remote or hybrid learning environments.
What if some students don’t want to share their choice?
Participation should be encouraged but never forced. Offering an opt-out or anonymous options helps maintain a safe space.
How do I handle controversial or sensitive topics in This or That questions?
Avoid polarizing subjects that could cause discomfort. Focus on lighthearted or educational themes to keep the environment positive.
Final Thoughts
This or That questions are versatile, low-prep tools that can transform classroom dynamics by promoting interaction, reflection, and fun. When thoughtfully selected and adapted, they support a wide range of educational goals from icebreaking to skill-building. Experiment with different formats and topics to find what resonates best with your students and watch engagement soar.
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