Group+3+Accountability+What+is+it+all+about?

__How do I ensure accountability when students are working in groups?__

Give each child a different role, to ensure that everyone has something to do. It is also good to have self evaluations and peer evaluations. Have each child do “some” work. Each writes their own thing. Be deliberate about “who works with whom.” Give each group an “agenda” or an outline of clear objectives of what needs to be accomplished. In the beginning of the year this needs to be modeled. Let them work independently, but bring them back together after a certain amount of time to gage where they are. It is also important to talk about how to treat others with respect so that the work is effective, efficient and a positive experience. Vary the amount of group work. If it is overused, it tends to loose appeal. It is important to make learning relevant. Students need to see the standards.
 * __Concerns__ || __Solutions__ ||
 * off task behavior || specific roles and requirements ||
 * pace of group work || constant monitoring & teacher meetings ||
 * grouping || differentiate groups in various ways ||
 * individual participation || every student hands in something to show their work ||