Encourage Collaboration · Share Ideas · Just for Fun
Back-to-Back Draw
Describe a hidden drawing, compare the result, then try again with better questions.
Time15–20 minutes
Group size4–36 people
FormatPartners
MaterialsSimple drawing cards, Paper, Pencils
What this accomplishes
Pairs complete two rounds of a communication challenge. The first allows description only; the second adds questions so students can compare what changed.
- Practice clear description and active listening
- Experience how questions improve communication
Before you begin
Materials
- Simple drawing cards
- Paper
- Pencils
Preparation
- Prepare two simple, culturally neutral line drawings per pair
- Arrange seating with side-by-side privacy if back-to-back positioning is inaccessible
What to say
“This is not an art contest. Your drawing is evidence about the directions, not your ability. Keep both drawings private until the reveal.”
How to run it
- 1
Pair students and assign describer and drawer roles.
- 2
Round one: the describer speaks while the drawer listens without questions.
- 3
Reveal and notice one successful detail and one mismatch.
- 4
Swap roles with a new image.
- 5
Round two: the drawer may ask clarifying questions.
- 6
Compare rounds and debrief what made communication improve.
Prompts to use
Where should the pencil start?
How large is the shape compared with the page?
What is beside, above, or inside it?
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Run pairs normally and compare strategies together.
Large group
Use identical image sets and a projected timer.
Virtual
Send images privately and have partners work in breakout rooms.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Allow side-by-side barriers, verbal reconstruction, or arranging shapes instead of drawing.
- Use thick-line, high-contrast images.
- Do not display or rank drawings without consent.
Debrief, if useful
Which round worked better and why?
What question prevented the most guessing?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
Two contrasting rounds let students discover the value of feedback and clarification through their own results.
Watch out for
- Keep the reveal light and never mock a drawing.
- Avoid images that depend on cultural knowledge or advanced vocabulary.