Group Sorting
Group size and group dynamics can have a significant impact on the success of a discussion. If the group is too large not everyone may be able to contribute, or it may be difficult to generate participation. It can be fairer to select discussion groups randomly. Over time this establishes a culture in which everyone has to work with everyone else in the class.
There are many ways to pick and sort groups randomly. Simple ideas include:
- Using a set of playing cards with students' names on.
- Assigning numbers to students.
- Picking names or objects out of a hat.
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Group roles
Assigning specific roles to individuals can help to support quieter students and focus dominant participants and aid the discussion.
These roles include:
- Chairperson/Facilitator – to run the discussion in a small group or whole class.
- Group Observer/Recorter – to observe and record who has contributed in a group discussion.
- Speaker – to report what has been discussed to the whole class.