Reading and Writing Technique:

CUBING

 

Cubing is a technique that can prepare students to read or write by having them think on six levels of cognition.  Cubing can be done on an individual level or as an entire class.  The reader or writer imagines a cube and puts one of the six tasks on each of the six sides.  Each task is considered for no more than five minutes.  The reader or writer has to think from many perspectives because all six sides of the cube are used.

 

Steps for Cubing:

 

  1. The teacher should construct a cube for a visual prop.  To do this, cover a square box with construction paper and label each side.  The sides should be labeled as follows: Describe it, Compare it, Associate it, Analyze it, Apply it, and Argue for or against it.

 

  1. The teacher needs to pass out to students the Six Sides of Cubing handout.  Using the cube as a visual prop, the teacher should model the strategy using a pen or something simple students will understand.  Each student should write down their thoughts of the pen for each side of the cube.  Students should be given no more than five minutes on each side of the cube.

 

  1. After the class or individual completes the cubing of the pen, then students should practice cubing on a concept that is in their sphere of knowledge.  Finally, students should use cubing on more difficult concepts to clarify thinking.  The teacher should time students while they are doing the activity.  It may also be helpful to have students discuss what they have written down for each of the six tasks.  This will let students know if they are on the right track with their ideas.

 

 

Morgan, R. F., & Richardson, J. S. (2000). Reading to learn in the content areas (Fourth Edition). Belmont: Wadsworth Thomas Learning.