The Grade 4 and 5 students in Mrs. Carswell's Class worked in groups while they learned to use a Pie Graph to Represent Budget Decisions.

Structured and supported group work provides kids with rich opportunities for building social, emotional, and personal competencies. I start group work by helping students develop the communication skills they will need to take on leadership roles, to contribute and listen, to seek consensus, and to successfully navigate the problems that inevitably arise while working in a group. Modelling, role playing, charts, and cues support student language skills and contribute to the success of their groups. However, the deepest learning happens when groups encounter problems and all the wheels fall off the bus! Then, students learn how to work through frustration and to persevere. They may need teacher coaching to regulate emotions and to use problem solving skills before they can regroup. The time and effort needed to teach these skills is warranted because these are transferable, life-long skills they will need to thrive, contribute, and be productive. At the end of all group work, students present to the class. This is a chance for the group to show case what they were able to do collectively and for the class to celebrate our community of learners. Group work can be a powerful learning method for so much more than just academic skills!

~ Mrs. Carswell