Layout 1

Partner Puzzles

Materials

Description

Activities in inclusive classrooms often require collaboration, teaming, and interaction (Dymond, Renzaglia, & Chun, 2008; Udvari-Solner, 2007; Udvari-Solner & Kluth, 2007). Students often are asked to work in pairs or small groups, but typical methods for grouping learners can lead to groans and complaints because students often want to work with their friends. To avoid protests,

try making group formation into a game. By creating small jigsaw puzzles, students of any age can learn something new while finding their teammates in a fun, low-risk, and even humorous way.

They may also want to take these puzzles home if they prove helpful as a teaching tool.

Directions

For each group you want formed, create a puzzle with 3–6 pieces (depending on how many students you want in each group). Then, paste a picture on a piece of tagboard and laminate it. Finally, cut the pieces apart and store the group of puzzles in a clear baggie. When it is time for a group activity, students can use the puzzles to find their teammates.

Examples

During her social studies classes, Ms. Chaudoir grouped her students into pairs by having them create a puzzle for famous historical events (e.g., the Constitution, Battle of Gettysburg).

Keep in Mind

Another way to form groups is to make a set of index cards containing several famous pairs, trios, or groups (depending on what size you want the groups to be). Pass out one card to each student and have them find their partners by talking to one another, showing their card, and looking at the cards of others. Ideas for pairs include the following:

Ideas for trios include the following:

Some teachers create pairs or trios connected to their content area, so an English teacher might have pairs such as Scout and Jem and Lennie and George, and an American History teacher might pair U.S. presidents with their vice presidents.

References/Recommended Reading

Vendors

Web Sites