Three questions to help your child talk about a news story
Use a playground example to practise explaining an opinion, giving a reason and considering another view.
When “What do you think?” gets an “I don’t know”
Your child may have followed a story but still struggle to answer such a broad question. Give them something specific to respond to first.
The playground example below is fictional. You can use it to practise before discussing a real news story. These are general conversation questions, not PSLE preparation materials.
A bench or a climbing frame?
Imagine a neighbourhood playground with space for one addition. Some residents want a sheltered bench so adults can sit nearby when it rains. Others want a climbing frame.
Read the example together. Ask your child to draw the two choices or describe them, then work through these questions:
- What do we know? There are two suggestions and space for one. We haven’t been told the cost or which option most residents prefer.
- Which would you choose, and why? A bench could give grandparents somewhere to sit. A climbing frame would give children another way to play. Ask your child to explain their choice, even if it differs from yours.
- Can you give an example? They might remember a playground visit or imagine someone using the space. Help them make clear which kind of example they mean.
If they’re stuck, ask a smaller question: “Who might use the bench?” Give them time to answer. “I would choose … because …” can help them start a sentence.
Consider the other choice
Ask what someone who chose the other option might say. What would you need to know before making a decision? Residents’ needs and an assessment of the equipment could affect the answer.
Let your child hear you reconsider too: “I hadn’t thought about grandparents waiting in the rain.” They don’t have to agree with you to give a good reason.
Use the questions with a news story
Choose a story from the sample and check its date. Ask what it reports before moving on to opinions.
Some stories don’t involve a choice. You can ask why an event matters or what your child wants to find out, instead of turning it into a debate. Keep it short. You can come back to the story another day.
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