DOG and CAT boundary map
This is a quick exercise to introduce systems thinking, relationships, and boundaries.
Ask students to draw two circles on a piece of paper next to each other.
In one circle, write the word “CAT.” In the other, write the word “DOG.” Draw an arrow pointing from CAT to DOG, and vice versa. Label each arrow with its relationship – this should be different for each student, but for example: DOG chases CAT, CAT taunts DOG. Then, ask students. to create a “title” for the systems map they have drawn. The title is akin to a boundary.
Ask students to draw two circles on a piece of paper next to each other.
In one circle, write the word “CAT.” In the other, write the word “DOG.” Draw an arrow pointing from CAT to DOG, and vice versa. Label each arrow with its relationship – this should be different for each student, but for example: DOG chases CAT, CAT taunts DOG. Then, ask students. to create a “title” for the systems map they have drawn. The title is akin to a boundary.
//Tips & Tricks for Facilitators
Try to refrain from giving the example right away. Encourage students to be creative in their relationships and titles, to try to get a diverse array of answers. Share back. Tell students they can expand on this by creating multiple maps with their own topics of interest.
//credits
This exercise was originally introduced to Crit Ex by Howard Silverman.
