In the students groups, I asked them to read Genesis 1:1-3 in at least four different translations. They were permitted to use their translations. I was lucky enough to have native French and Spanish speakers as well. The students were then to email me a list of the group members and the differences in wording which might lead to a different interpretation of the text.
The exercise led to an excellent conversation about the issues of creatio ex nihilo (and others), and by any measure, it was a success.