Think-Pair-Share

Think-Pair-Share is a cooperative learning strategy, which allows students to think about a question/ idea/ issue/ notion and to share their thoughts with a partner before discussion in a small group.

The strategy allows students to share their thoughts in a non-threatening situation and involves all members of a group. Students learn to share with a range of class members rather than remaining within their peer group. The opinions of all members of the class are valued. The focus is on short-term, purposeful talk.

How do I do it?

Explain the purpose of the strategy to the class and the idea/ issue/ problem that is to be discussed. A revision of listening skills is also useful (eye contact, non-verbal encouragement such as nodding, no put downs, no interrupting). The process may include the following steps:

• identify the point of discussion
• allow think time as students think individually
• ask students to face a partner and share their ideas in turn
• the pair contributes to a larger group or the whole class and ideas are recorded

Use the shared list of ideas for upcoming work or to create a new idea.

http://www.ltag.education.tas.gov.au/effectteach/Thinking/thinkpairshare.htm