I just finished a group project with my 11th grade U.S. History classes. I allowed my students to choose their own groups. I usually randomly choose the groups, but this is our largest project of the semester. If a student does not present their project, it could take an "A" student to a "B- to C+" range.
The presentation grades spanned from A's to C's of they presented. If they didn't present or get research to their team they flunked. I'm in the process of calling parents back and confirming the convient "doctor's appointments" or "grandma's heart attack," but my question is, what is the best way to create groups? Do I pair an "A" student who just happen to show up for class or the princess whose mommy will excuse that particular period that day? The book gives multiple solutions with negatives attached. Please blog back your view.
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When I have created groups with projects I always incorperate a self grading participation rubric and a group rubric. This seems to help. I am not sure if you have been doing this all ready or not. I know it helps keeps the kids on task and within he coopertive working mode! Doug
ReplyDeleteI usually put some thought into my group pairings and then make the kids believe it was random. I make sure that the groups are evenly distributed so that there isn't one full group with the slackers and then the kid that does all of the work. I get variety in the groups and then the key thing is to include the group rubric and the self rubric like Doug mentioned. I find it is also helpful to assign specific tasks to group members to give structure and to ensure that each student knows what is expected of them. I don't know if this helps much, but just some suggestions.
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