Cooperative Learning in the Elementary Grades: Jigsaw Model Print-friendly version Viewing questions 1.

Teacher Ilene Miller describes the jigsaw model as a type of cooperative learning strategy in which children meet in their expert groups to learn about a particular subject. Then children meet with their home groups to teach and assess the information theyve learned. What distinguishes the jigsaw model from other cooperative learning strategies youve observed or read about? What do you think of its effectiveness as a learning strategy? 2. When students teach a subject, Ilene remarks, they really learn it. Have you found this to be true in your experience both as a teacher and as a learner? Why or why not? 3. Students suggest several methods they might use in teaching peers about the ancient Olympics and then measuring what theyve learned. What can you infer about the types of learning experiences students have had, based on their suggestions? 4. What do you think of Ilenes statement that she spends one to two hours planning her learning groups? In your experience, why is that important? How can the group dynamic, in general, affect learning? 5. What are some of the techniques Ilene uses for facilitating learning? Which of these techniques would you consider adding to your teaching repertoire? 6. In Ms. Miller Introduces the Lesson, one of the bonus segments, we learn that children had been assigned homework in preparation for this activity. An oft-heard criticism of homework is that its little more than rote busywork. What do you think of this assignment in preparation for the jigsaw activity? How might it have jumpstarted the class discussion?