Sometimes we assume that students will just know how to work cooperatively with another person or in a group. If you find that your students do not work well together, or tend to get off task when working with a partner or group, teach them how. It is important to create some structure. Structure is especially important  at the beginning of the year, but can be imposed at any time during the year to help students learn to work well with others.  

A routine I use a lot is modified from Kagan’s cooperative learning theory and activities. It is called Rally Coach. A pair of students shares one piece of paper to work on. Partner A is working out the problem, while explaining what he/she is thinking and doing. Partner B is listening and watching. If Partner B has a question or thinks a mistake has been made, he/she tells Partner A. Once they both agree on the solution, the paper is flipped over and roles switch. This process helps students develop the capacity to explain their thinking and to question another person’s thinking, to work cooperatively, and contribute in partner and group work. Once this routine is strong, it also makes a nice set up for a partner quiz.

Metamorphosis Coach Nancy Buck

Secrets to Engaging Every Student
Every Day In Math Class

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