Consider All Factors (CAF)

Description
Consider All Factors is an exercise designed to flush out all of the relevant
factors involved in an argument, choice or decision. It is useful to perform before
choosing, deciding or planning. If you dont consider all factors, your choice may
seem right at the time, but with hindsight may appear simplistic. When you
examine other peoples factors, it also becomes clear what factors have been
omitted. It is important to consider all factors first and then pick out the most
important ones.
Procedure
1. Draw a CAF frame on the board, with the topic for examination listed above
two columns, Your Thinking and Others Thinking.
2. Give students 2 to 3 min to list factors important to the case (Your Thinking).
3. In small groups, students compare factors and list down factors that others
have (Others Thinking). Compare the number of factors before and after.
4. On board list factors that students have compiled.
5. Once listed, students may like to consider the five factors they believe are
most important.
Link to Outcomes
Students describe and reason with patterns, structures and relationships in order
to understand, interpret, justify and make predictions.
Dynamic Strategies
Think/Clarification
Thinking and Reasoning Skills
Decision making, planning, drawing conclusions, making judgments
Tips
CAF can be used to examine factors affecting oneself, other people or society as
a whole.

Consider All Factors (CAF)

Topic

Your Thinking

Others Thinking