5-4-3-2-1
5-4-3-2-1
The 5-4-3-2-1 routine is a collaborative summarising activity designed to help students identify key ideas, recall prior knowledge, and reflect on their learning. Working in groups, students are guided to focus on information they find interesting, organise their thoughts, and pose questions about areas they are uncertain about.
This structured approach encourages deeper understanding of the subject matter and results in a visual representation of learning that can be displayed, shared, or revisited later.
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Routine Framework
Print out the 5-4-3-2-1 routines, available in six different colours—ideal for organising up to six groups, with each group assigned a specific colour. Whilst A3 paper works best, as it provides ample space for exploration and jotting down ideas, A4 is a suitable alternative if A3 printing is unavailable.
Introduce the Activity
Explain to the students that they will work collaboratively to summarise their learning using the 5-4-3-2-1 framework. Review the goals of the activity, emphasising the importance of meaningful collaboration and reflection.
Divide Students into Groups
Arrange students into groups. You could also assign roles within each group (e.g., facilitator, recorder, presenter) to ensure everyone participates actively.
Encourage students to complete each part of the template collaboratively
Set specific instructions on what they need to discuss and jot down for each of the five sections. You can project the instructions on the board and give a specific timeframe for each section. Example:
5: List five key points, ideas, or words related to the topic.
4: Identify four facts or things they already know.
3: Mention three interesting things or insights they’ve discovered.
2: Highlight two areas they need to research further or find challenging.
1: Write one main idea or a summarising statement about the topic.
(SEE THE IMAGE BELOW FOR MORE IDEAS)
Facilitate Group Discussions
Move around the room, observing and supporting groups as they work. Prompt deeper thinking by asking open-ended questions and encouraging students to justify their choices.
Share and Display
Once completed, have each group present their 5-4-3-2-1 summary to the class. Display the finished templates on the walls or in a shared space for future reference and discussion.
Reflect and Wrap Up
Lead a whole-class discussion to reflect on the activity. Ask students to share their biggest takeaways and any remaining questions they have about the topic.
