The Jigsaw Method

The jigsaw method of teaching is an interesting and exciting alternative to the more traditional practice of giving a lecture on a topic, followed by assigning students a task to work on independently. For those who are unfamiliar with the jigsaw method, a brief description can be found below:

A teacher splits students up into small groups (typically 4-6 students per group). These original groups are known as "home" groups. Each student in the home group is given a different topic or subject that they must become an "expert" on. The teacher provides the necessary materials and the students then separate into their "expert" groups. Here they work with students from the other home groups who were given the same topic to become an expert on. The students must then work together while using the supplied information and materials to learn as much as they can about their specific topic. For example, one group may need to become an expert on the Boston Tea Party, while another may need to become an expert on the Stamp Act. The teacher monitors each group to ensure students are kept on task and to answer any questions. After a set amount of time, or when the teacher determines that all students have had sufficient time to complete the task, the students reconvene in their home groups. Here they essentially become the teacher and discuss their newly acquired knowledge in their area of "expertise". 

The jigsaw method has several benefits. First of all, students must work together with their peers in order to gather as much information on their topic as possible. This encourages cooperation with peers. They must then communicate what they have learned to their classmates within the home group. In order to do this effectively, students should take notes or use graphic organizers. This helps students learn how to organize information and present it in a clear and concise manner. It also forces students to really pay attention and learn the material to the best of their ability, because they do not want to return to their home group and be the only one who is not an "expert" on their topic. The novelty of the assignment may also encourage students to pay more attention or ask more questions as they may feel more comfortable doing so in the safety of a small group. It also can allow the teacher to be able to cover a wide range of topics in a relatively brief period of time. For these reasons and more, the jigsaw method of teaching is something that all teachers should try at least once.