What is brainstorming?

Brainstorming is a group creativity technique that was designed to generate a

large number of ideas for the solution of a problem. The method originated in
a 1953 book called Applied Imagination by Alex Faickney Osborn, an
advertising executive. Osborn proposed that groups could double their creative
output by using the method of brainstorming.
Brainstorming is a useful way of getting started or generating new ideas. It can
be done as a class, in small groups, or by individual students. Once students are
familiar with the process, student can use this technique on their own when they
are stuck, revising their work, or moving on to a new phase.

".Brainstorming is an exercise in free-thinking "

?Why Brainstorming ? What is its purpose

to focus students' attention on a particular topic.
to create new ideas
to generate a quantity of ideas." quantity breeds
quality" the more suggestions, the better.
to teach acceptance and respect for individual differences.
to motivate and to break down barriers of
communication and develop teams.
to encourage learners to take risks in sharing their ideas and
opinions.
to demonstrate to students that their knowledge and their
language abilities are valued and accepted.
to introduce the practice of idea collection prior to beginning
tasks such as writing.
to solve problems.
to provide an opportunity for students to share ideas and
expand their existing knowledge by building on each other's
contributions.
The brainstorming technique can also be used just for
fun as an icebreaker. . Usually everyone joins in
" Ideas move rapidly when their time comes. "
~ Carolyn Heilbrun