They do like to work in groups, but it seems that the attraction is primarily social. For example, one day when they were working on a set of ratio and proportion exercises and story problems, he told them to form small groups to discuss the work. The groups were loud, and in each group someone seemed to dominate while others sat by passively. When their answers differed, they usually erased their answers to match one another's. Teachers can help one another focus on and enhance the learning environment.
Tasks affect both the environment and the discourse.
Different tasks require different types of instructional strategies. Teachers give off many cues about what is valued. When teachers are trying to change their approach, sometimes the messages students receive can get mixed. Discouraged, Mr. Davies consults with the teacher next door, who offers to come observe during her physical education period the next day. As they talk, she suggests that the tasks he is using in the groups may be contributing to the problems.