Hello colleagues, You may be familiar with a cooperative learning activity known as jigsaw or expert jigsaw. Those who are interested can read a description of jigsaw at this link. I value cooperative learning activities since they allow for authentic interaction while also supporting the application of teamwork skills.
In my advanced class, the learners are currently engaged in an expert jigsaw activity related to how cultural differences may affect communication, e.g., eye contact, direct and indirect styles of communication, space, etc.. Pairs have been assigned to different communication issues, and they will plan together how to explain the issue to the other students in the class.
I've used jigsaw quite a bit with higher level learners. I'd love to hear ideas for how to use jigsaw with lower level classes. Thanks for any and all ideas!
Cheers, Susan Finn Miller
Moderator, English Language Acquisition CoP