Cooperative Lesson: Geoboard Shapes

EDP 621, Summer 2001

By: Sarah E. Creach

Grades: 2^nd-3^rd

Objectives: 1) To identify sides and corners of plane figures.

2) The students will learn the concepts of one-way and two-way communication.

Materials: For each group, geoboard, rubber bands, and an envelope with cards of various shapes on them.

Procedure: 1) Divide the class into groups of 3-5 children.

2) Select two volunteers from each group and seat them back to back with the remainder of their group gathered around them.

3) One student receives a sandwich size bag of rubber bands. The second student will describe the design to him while viewing a picture of the design. Once the student thinks they have completed the shape, they must say the name of the shape to the group. Then the group, together, should check whether the directions were followed.

4) Remember—to be one-way communication the student with the rubber bands cannot ask questions and the group is to be silent and not give any clues.

5) Now that a few pairs have completed a few shapes, while they remain back to back allow the assembler to ask questions of the direction giver.

6) After a few more pairs have completed a few shapes, have the volunteers face each other so that the direction giver can see what the assembler is doing.

Discussion: 1) Which was harder, assembler or direction giver?

2) Which is better one-way or two-way?

3) What emotions did you feel when you were either a volunteer or an observer?

Evaluation: 1) Observe the groups during the lesson and give feedback to the groups.

2) An individual test over plane figures at the conclusion of the unit in math.

Vacha, Edward F., Ph. D. et al. (1979) Improving Classroom Social Climate Teacher’s Handbook. Orcutt Union School District.