Tossing Clementines

 

In order to get students to participate in lecture, Pardis Sabeti throws clementines to anyone who answers a question correctly or incorrectly.

She says that clementines are perfect for this in that they are soft, right-sized, projectile, and nutritious. The results are better than Professor Sabeti could have ever imagined, not only because it gets people to answer questions, but also because it keeps the entire class engaged and lively, especially when she throws to students in the back. Everyone has to pay attention and be alert as clementines are flying, and class becomes generally more fun.