Cooperative Learning is a great tool to use in your classroom. Cooperative Learning helps students be able to communicate effectively with others, work well with others, and have some responsibilities in your classroom. Using Cooperative Learning will help your students become more engaged in what you are teaching.
In this post, I will give you some tips to implement Cooperative Learning in your classroom. This is just a quick overview with some tips. If you really want to implement Cooperative Learning into your classroom, please read the book “Kagan Cooperative Learning” by Spencer Kagan. This book includes everything you need to know about cooperative learning. It is an easy read with a ton of useful information, including all the Cooperative Learning Structures directions! Click here to check out this book!
After reading this post, click here to check out my favorite cooperative learning structures I use in my classroom.
1. Groups of 4
In your classroom you should really only have groups of 4 students. Now, if you don’t have a perfect amount, an extra group of 3 or 5 isn’t bad. Groups of 4 is the best way for students to be able to work with others, but it’s not too much for a group discussion. I think 4 is a wonderful group size, perfect to pair off or work as a whole group.
2. Numbering Students
I number my students 1,2,3,4 (sometimes 5) in each Cooperative Learning group. This way, I can call on all number 3’s to do something in the classroom. This really helps my class flow well. I love being able to say a number and they can answer the question, or go to do something.
3. Rank the Students
Students should really be ranked in each group. Number 1’s are the “leaders” and top of the class. Number 2 and 3 are the average students. Number 4’s are the lower students. I stick to this in my classroom and it is wonderful. I know I can always rely on the 1’s and 2’s to help the group. 1’s can be partnered with 2’s for shoulder partners or 3’s for face partners. This way, they don’t have work a lot with the lowest 4’s. But 4’s can be encouraged by the 2’s and 3’s. I really love this in my classroom, it works so well.
4. Color or Number Groups
I color code each of my groups. This way if I want someone specifically from a group, I can say the group color then number 2. This also helps to organize your classroom. I have supplies for each group by their color. This just helps to specify which group you want.
5. Use a spinner
I LOVE using a spinner in my classroom. I spin to call on any number 1-4 (or 5). This way, I don’t have to pick sticks to make sure everyone has a turn and it is more random. Also, I know if I haven’t called on number 3’s in awhile that I can easily call on them next.
The spinner from Kagan is a staple in my classroom. I use it every day! It has definitely helped to save time while using Cooperative Learning Structures. Click here to check it out!
6. Use a Timer
I also LOVE using a timer. All structures can be timed. I keep a timer close by so I can give students a set amount of time to discuss. When the timer goes off, students know they are done.
7. Use Structures!
I recently wrote a post on the top 10 Cooperative Learning structures that I use in my classroom. When you have your students in groups, it is so easy to add in structures during your day to day lessons. This adds so much more to your classroom and your teaching. More students are engaged and working together.
8. Utilize Talking and Group Work
The students are already in groups, so make the most of it! Students should have set times to discuss with the group or partners. This helps to facilitate learning. Have them discuss a question with a Think Pair Share. It doesn’t take much time and so many more students are engaged than if you asked a question and one student answered.
9. Build Up Teams
Give students plenty of time to respect and value everyone in their group. When you switch groups up, take a little bit of time to have them work together in a team building activity. This way, they will start to like everyone sitting with them and will work better when it comes to academics. To do this, you can use any structure but make it about something that will let the students learn about each other. For example, you could do a Round Robin on their favorite activity in school and they can discuss what they have in common.
10. Use Gambits
Gambits are responses when someone is talking. This includes ways to ask for help, giving encouragement to others, disagreeing politely, or agreeing with others. For example, after someone shares in the group say, “Thank you for sharing” or “Thank you for listening.” Remind students to respond to the other person they are talking to before saying anything themselves. This helps to improve students’ communication skills.
I hope these tips will help you implement Cooperative Learning in your classroom. Cooperative Learning will make your teaching better and engages your students more.
If you want to read about my favorite Cooperative Learning structures, click here.
Thank you for Continually Learning with us!
Kyle and Sarah
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