Flexible+Grouping

media type="custom" key="5894315" flat toc =Flexible Grouping= Students work as part of many different groups depending on the task and/or content. Sometimes students are placed in groups based on readiness, other times they are placed based on interest and/or learning profile. Groups can either be assigned by the teacher or chosen by the students. Students can be assigned purposefully to a group or assigned randomly. This strategy allows students to work with a wide variety of peers and keeps them from being labeled as advanced or struggling.

Illustrations From The Mathematics Classroom
media type="file" key="Karen Hume - Grouping - iPhone (Cellular).3gp" width="270" height="270" align="center"
 * For example, the teacher may assign groups based on readiness for direct instruction on algebraic concepts, and allow students to choose their own groups for projects that investigate famous mathematicians.
 * Boxed Pairs
 * //Make sure everyone works together.//
 * If students frequently work in pairs, create a chart listing students' names across the top and along one side. When two students work together, have them initial the box at which their names intersect. Explain to students that all boxes must be initialed by the end of the year.
 * Christ the King Promising Practice
 * Karen Hume on Grouping (12-minute Video)


 * A method for random partner selection is provided @ []
 * [[image:Making Random Groups at Selkirk Elementary School_Page_1.jpg width="240" height="184"]][[image:Making Random Groups at Selkirk Elementary School_Page_2.jpg width="240" height="184"]][[image:Making Random Groups at Selkirk Elementary School_Page_3.jpg width="240" height="183"]]