Student Contributor: K. Hylton
Using puzzle pieces as a grouping strategy for students is a fun way to arrange students in groups. This strategy allows for complete randomization of groups and makes sure that no students feel excluded.
This tool is used when you want students to be in groups to share their work/thoughts. While the students are working individually on the activity they are given, the teacher will pass out puzzle pieces to the students. When students are done working individually, students will find the 4-6 students (this is all up to the teacher depending on the size they want their groups to be) that have the puzzle pieces that make up their puzzle. Students will then complete their group work. This strategy allows for complete randomization and can be used over and over again without forming the same group every time. It also discourages from students grouping up with their friends and forming the same group each time. Students will also not have to stress about trying to find a group on their own.
This tool fits into the supportive phase because it happens during learning. It supports students by giving them random groups each time this tool is used, which allows for them to hear different perspectives to build upon their learning. It is also supportive to students because this method makes sure everyone will be put into a group without the stress of finding the group. This is especially good for students who might not have many friends in the class and are uncomfortable finding their own groups. This tool fits into the student directed and collaborative because the teacher hands out the pieces and it is the student’s job to find their people with the pieces that make the full puzzle, then do the group work that is assigned.
More Information –
Tool Source: Gus Nollmeyer
