Small groups run most efficiently with three to five people. A recorder and reporter may be appointed in each group. Students may be asked to focus on asking questions, expressing feelings, expressing support or non-support, or brainstorming to solve a problem. A group checklist or a cooperative worksheet may be created. Each person in the group should be encouraged to respond.
Students then report back to a large group or to the teacher.
When all responses are in, the teacher and students may discuss the implications of the ideas expressed. Prior to a group session, students may submit names of students they wish to work with for a specified period of time. Groups may be rotated often. If students are making decisions such as analyzing a case study, they should be accountable for their decisions. For example, students may be put in groups to read an article, discuss the elements and compare similarities.