Cooperative Learning Example
Jigsaw

Jigsaw Method

Students work in “expert groups” to study one aspect of a topic or concept and then go to cooperative groups to share their expertise with other group members who are experts in other areas. This strategy ensures individual accountability as each student must teach to the other members of the group.

The topic must be one that can be divided into equal sections for investigation among group members.
1) Introduce the topic to the whole class.
2) Form Cooperative Groups of about 4 students - “Home Group”
3) Within each group students are numbered 1 - 4.
4) All same numbered students from each group come together to form a temporary expert group. All # 1's in one group etc.
5) Return to home groups. Each expert teaches their topic to the other Home Group members. The experts give information but ask questions to ensure group members understand material.
6) Groups reexamine the large topic through a question or problem stated for the group.
Variation - as a support to students new to this strategy, form larger groups with 2 students assigned to each number. This provides support when returning to the group and teaching to section.

* Adapted with permission from Kagan Publishing. Kagan, Spencer. Cooperative Learning. San Clemente, CA: Kagan Publishing, 1994. www.KaganOnline.com

Jigsaw - For more detail and examples in various subjects areas

 

Cooperative Learning Examples