Static groups anyone? anyone? anyone?
Not if we truly follow and apply what we know about the laws of motion.
Would you want to remain in the same state of motion all year long?
Certainly NOT, so let's apply the concept of flexible grouping--our external force!
Let's overcome the laws of inertia and put our students in MOTION!
Mix the groups throughout a unit of study, and throughout the year. Vary your laboratory groups, activity groups and project groups...informal groupings according to birthdays, length of hair, color of the shoes, learning styles, academic needs, etc...increase student achievement when cooperative learning principles are at there optimum.
Does the group?
1) understand the task
2) work as a team in order to complete the task(s)
3) have adequate time for completion and evaluation
4) work in an environment that allows for flexible work space and face-to-face interaction
5) encourage each other for individual accountability
Related Sites.........Mind Power Student Inventory................Multiple Intelligences and Optimum Retention Strategies