Name: THE NINE DOTS

Time: 10 minutes

Supplies: Pen/pencil and paper Needed

Instructions: Each member should write three even rows of three dots, equally spaced, on a piece of paper.

Example:

          0     0     0

          0     0     0

          0     0     0

To complete this exercise, you must connect the nine dots using four straight lines. All of the lines must be connected; they must be continuous. You have five minutes to complete this exercise.

Discussion Questions: The intent of this exercise was to get you to think "outside the box." This is not to be confused with breaking the rules. In the absence of complete information or instructions, we tend to place restrictions on ourselves, causing creativity and enthusiasm to suffer.

What rules did you assume for this task? Were you frustrated that you did not know this? Do we believe that we have to stay within assumed rules in the chapter? How does "tradition" play into remaining "in the box?" How are members treated when they suggest an idea which is "outside the box," particularly new members by seniors? Was the time limit a factor? Positive or negative? What do you plan to do to encourage thinking "outside the box?"