Plus, Minus, Interesting (PMI)

Also known as: evaluating, judging

PMI is a critical thinking tool used to generate discussion around the positives, negatives and interesting ideas associated with a particular idea or concept. It:

  • provides educators with a valuable tool when leading classroom discussions about difficult decisions, issues or situations
  • encourages students to examine ideas and concepts from different perspectives
  • was developed by Dr. Edward de Bono, who also created the Six Thinking Hats

PMI

ICT templates

Learning activity templates

Google templates 

Ensure you are logged into your Google account before accessing these templates.

Microsoft templates

Ensure you are logged into your Microsoft account before accessing these templates. To edit Microsoft templates, go to:
File > Download a Copy.

How to use with ICT

  • Check out the Graphic organisers (Icon prompt template) and Six Thinking Hats activity cards for other templates that support students to investigate concepts from different perspectives.

External resources

Find out more resources
Title Link Description
PMI chart PMI chart Short description on the PMI chart and a downloadable template from the University of South Australia.
PMI activity explained by Cathy Costello  Cathy Costello explains the PMI activity Extended description about the PMI technique, including examples of other PMI structures.

Disclaimer

Links to third-party websites:

If you use the links provided on this website to access a third party’s website, you acknowledge that the terms of use, including licence terms set out on the third party’s website apply to the use which may be made of the materials on that third party’s website or where permitted by the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth).

The department accepts no responsibility for content on third-party websites.

Personalised learning

Students with disability

When planning to use technology in the classroom it is important to consider the diversity of your learners. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to guide the design of learning environments that are accessible and effective for all. For UDL guidelines, information and additional materials, visit the CAST website.

Many students require technology as an adjustment to support their access to learning. Adjustments (NESA) are actions taken that enable a student with disability and additional learning needs to access syllabus outcomes and content on the same basis as their peers. Enrol in the Personalised learning with technology online course to help you make more informed decisions regarding technology.

 

To support your understanding of inclusive curriculum planning, enrol in the microlearning course: Curriculum planning for every student in every classroom. This online series is designed to equip K-12 teachers to effectively identify and meet the diverse learning needs of all their students

 

High potential and gifted learning and support

When planning to use technology in the classroom it is important to consider the full range of abilities of all learners. High potential and gifted learners may require additional adjustments and deliberate talent development.  These strategies include differentiation, grouping, enrichment and advanced learning pathways so students can be engaged, grow and achieve their personal best.

 

Assessing and identifying high potential and gifted learners will help teachers decide which students may benefit from extension and additional challenge. Effective strategies and contributors to achievement for high potential and gifted learners helps teachers to identify and target areas for growth and improvement. School leaders can access the Evaluation and Planning Tool to support strategic improvement planning.

 

Recognising the diversity of high potential and gifted students represented in classrooms across 4 domains of potential can be explored further by accessing illustrations of practice.

 

For further support and advice about how to tailor learning for high potential and gifted students from all backgrounds, visit the High Potential and Gifted Education web section, High Potential and Gifted Education Policy or attend one of the professional learning courses on offer.