TIPS FOR

EFFECTIVE
SMALL GROUPS!
Why randomized Why randomizing in
group work works: front of students matters:

Group work is shown to be one of the most
effective classroom strategies for
positive social interaction
meaningful participation
competence and achievement
Randomizing this ensures all students reap the
full benefits and start to see you as a facilitator
of learning rather than the knowledge holder.
Teenaged students know the role teachers typically
assign them in groups and look to fulfill it.
Consistent randomization confirms that each
student has value and a voice in the conversation!
Mobilizes knowledge throughout the room.
Keeps the power in the social aspect and the
community you work to foster.
It can be fun!

Why strategic grouping is failing in your classroom:

WHO is it hurting: HOW it is the “silent killer”:

gifted/high achieving students
ELL and Special Education students
students who struggle with behaviors
all kids who fall somewhere in the middle
of all of these categories
promotes inequity as members of the
classroom community
unintentionally shares your notion of
certain students with the whole class
disintegrates the “group” in group work

What methods for randomizing work best:

playing cards (suit, rank, combo of the two)

ge it u p !
online spinning wheel Chan
as students come in the door
en tly !
popsicle sticks Frequ
physical attribute of students’ clothing (color, etc.)

How to best manage your new role :)

You are no longer just a classroom teacher but a facilitator of learning!

1) Embrace it! 5) Explicitly teach group work skills
2) Actively assist but not solve 6) Stay consistent in randomizing
3)See if groups can help each other 7) Be okay not being in power!
4)Be adaptable in new landscapes 8) Facilitate :)))

Sources: An example of
7 Needs of Adolescents randomized
YouTube Link
Visibly Random Grouping grouping for a
Thinking Classroom