Jigsaw Instructional Strategy

A visual representation

Divide class into groups of 4. These are students’ home groups.

Each member (colour) of the home group has a different role or task.

Each member in the home group is also a member of an EXPERT GROUP. Each expert group is comprised of members with the common role or task from the home groups.

Expert groups meet to learn and solidify the knowledge particular to their specific roles or tasks.

Expert group members return home. Each home member presents his/her role or task information to group members.

In home groups, students then report or present on the issue – each group benefitting from compiled expertise and focused experience.

Using jigsaw as an instructional strategy promotes peer teaching as well as group collaboration.