The first player to place three “F’s” or three
“O’s” in a row wins. After making the simple
tic-tac-toe game board, explain to your partner that he can gain a
square if he gives an example of a fact or an opinion. If a player
names a fact, he can place an “F” in a square. If a
player states an opinion, he can place an “O” in a square
on the board.
As you play, have your child prove his factual statements. You
might ask, “How could you prove that this statement is true?”
Or “What sources would you check to see whether a statement
is true?” (For example, you might have encyclopedias, record
books such as the Guinness Book of World Records, or other reference materials on hand while playing).
Likewise, ask your child about the opinions he comes up with when
he is creating an “O” square. You might ask, “Why
is this statement an opinion?” Talk about some of the common
forums where people express opinions, such as letters to the editor
of a newspaper, votes for political candidates, or participation in
arguments. You might also talk about the opinions of people your child
knows. For example, do two students share the same taste in clothes,
music, or books? Ask your child what comparisons we can make based
on facts. For example, the height, weight, and eye colors of people
we know can be compared by using facts.
