After lessons are learned, the group dissolves. When a beginning reader holds, tracks, and reads the same material as a more experienced reader, the message is powerful. We don't all learn to read at the same pace, but there are many reading experiences we can share and from which we can learn. Using flexible grouping enables everyone to feel empowered. Random grouping is good when forming groups of equal size or when you'd like students to get to know one another.
Students can learn different roles form one another and work together to complete a group task.
Assign students to a group or have them assign themselves to a group based on interest in a topic, such as a favorite animal. Use this when student interest is the main motivation for learning about a topic. For example, when having students dramatize a story, ask those who are artistic to paint a theatrical backdrop and those with musical talent to play an instrument. Group together students who need help with a particular skill or strategy, such as using context clues. For instance, if your class is studying Beverly Cleary, you can have students list their favorite books by Cleary on an index card and then group by choice.