Three Ways to Boost Deep Thinking Through Conflict
Conflict in stories is like the spicy seasoning that adds flavour to a dish. It keeps us glued to our seats, wondering what’s around the next corner. Story conflict is not a simple battle between good and evil; it's the very pulse of the narrative, the unique element that keeps us hooked.
Story conflict is not your typical narrative tool; it's a mental workout that enhances our cognitive abilities. By immersing ourselves in it, we don't just exercise our critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills; we elevate them. It’s like a mental gym session with a thrilling twist.
Ready to level up your thinking skills? Here are three powerful ways to use story conflict to boost your cognitive abilities.
Every story is a puzzle waiting to be solved. Identify a challenge embedded in a story.
If you are:
A child–put yourself in the hero’s shoes. Think of an answer to the challenge before reading on.
A parent–serialise a chapter book at bedtime. Discuss with your child what might come next for the hero/villain.
A teacher–consider different perspectives of the conflict. Who’s right, and why? Who’s wrong, and why?
Story conflict is not just about clashes on the page; it is a catalyst for emotions.
If you are:
A child–tune in to how conflicts make you feel. Understanding your reactions is critical to mastering emotional intelligence.
A parent–discuss the emotions being felt by the character. Discuss with your child times they have felt the same.
A teacher–use the Thinking Hat strategy to identify possible ways of dealing with the emotions in the conflict.
Weave story conflicts into everyday situations. Make activities, chores, or lessons like binge-watching a gripping series.
If you are:
A child–think of ways you could do something better, faster, or differently from the time before.
A parent–turn daily chores into a problem-solving treasure hunt for your children. Sprinkle clues around the house. (For instance, hide one under those dirty clothes that need to be picked up. Have the clues lead somewhere interesting. Hide the next one in the dirty laundry basket.)
A teacher–bring a story conflict to life through debate or role-play. Students should conduct the discussions in character. Positives and negatives of Brutus’s actions in Julius Caesar, anyone? Or, have the second little pig convince the others to build straw houses. Change the pig, change the house.
Of course, the above lists are endless, limited only by imagination. I encourage you to try them out. Let me know how they went in the comments.
