Jigsaw

Each student becomes an expert, then teaches

30–50 min16–36 studentsFlexible seating for regrouping

At a Glance

Duration

30–50 min

Group Size

16–36 students

Space Setup

Flexible seating for regrouping

Materials

Expert group reading packets
Note-taking template
Summary graphic organizer

Bloom's Taxonomy

UnderstandAnalyzeEvaluate

SEL Competencies

Relationship SkillsSelf-Management

What is Jigsaw?

The Jigsaw method is a cooperative learning strategy that improves student outcomes by making each student responsible for a specific portion of a larger topic, effectively turning them into 'experts' who must teach their peers. This interdependence ensures individual accountability and active engagement because the final learning objective can only be achieved when all pieces of the 'puzzle' are combined. It works by reducing competitive pressure and fostering a collaborative environment where students develop both deep content knowledge and essential communication skills. By breaking complex material into manageable segments, teachers can facilitate peer-to-peer instruction that often resonates more effectively than traditional lectures. The method is particularly powerful for promoting social integration and reducing prejudice in diverse classrooms, as students must rely on one another to succeed. Research indicates that this high-stakes social interdependence triggers deeper cognitive processing and better long-term retention of information. Ultimately, Jigsaw transforms the classroom from a teacher-centered environment into a student-led community of inquiry where every voice is essential for the collective success of the group.

Ideal for

Multi-faceted topicsComparing multiple civilizationsExploring different perspectives on one eventContent-heavy units that need division

When to Use It

Grade Bands

K-2 –3-5 ✓6-8 ★9-12 ★

Subject Fit

Math –ELA ★Science ★Social Studies ★SEL ★Arts ✓

How to Run a Jigsaw

Form Home Groups

Divide the class into diverse groups of 4-6 students, ensuring a mix of abilities and backgrounds in each 'home' team.

Assign Segments

Break the day's lesson into 4-6 distinct segments and assign one specific segment to each student within the home group.

Convene Expert Groups

Have students with the same assigned segment meet in 'expert groups' to research, discuss, and master their specific topic together.

Plan the Presentation

Instruct expert groups to decide on the best way to teach their segment to their home group members, creating visual aids or summaries if needed.

Return to Home Groups

Students return to their original home groups and take turns teaching their segment to their teammates, who are encouraged to ask clarifying questions.

Monitor and Facilitate

Circulate among the groups to observe the teaching process, clarify misconceptions, and ensure all students are participating equitably.

Conduct Individual Assessment

Administer a quiz or short assessment to all students covering all segments of the lesson to ensure individual mastery of the entire topic.

Research Evidence

Aronson, E.

1978 · Sage, Beverly Hills, CA

The original study demonstrated that the Jigsaw method significantly reduced racial conflict and increased student self-esteem while improving academic performance in integrated classrooms.

Hattie, J.

2008 · Routledge, 1st Edition

Cooperative learning strategies, including Jigsaw, show a high effect size (d=0.41 to 0.59), indicating they are significantly more effective than individualistic or competitive learning models.

Tran, V. D., & Lewis, R.

2012 · International Journal of Higher Education, 1(2), 9-20

The study found that Jigsaw learning significantly improved students' attitudes toward the subject matter and increased their level of cooperation compared to traditional lecture methods.

Topics That Work Well With Jigsaw

Browse curriculum topics where Jigsaw is a suggested active learning strategy.

Cell Structure and Transport

5th Year · The Living World: Senior Cycle Biology

Ecosystem Dynamics and Energy Flow

5th Year · The Living World: Senior Cycle Biology

The Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles

6th Year · The Living World: Foundations of Biology

The Immune System

6th Year · The Living World: Foundations of Biology

Electronic Configuration and Periodicity

5th Year · Foundations of Matter and Chemical Change

Redox Titrations

5th Year · Foundations of Matter and Chemical Change

Atomic Architecture and the Periodic Table

Periodic Trends and Periodicity

6th Year · Advanced Chemical Principles and Molecular Dynamics

Bronsted-Lowry Acids and Bases

6th Year · Advanced Chemical Principles and Molecular Dynamics

The Bunreacht na hÉireann

1st Year · Active Citizenship and the Democratic World

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Jigsaw classroom technique?

Jigsaw is a cooperative learning strategy where a main topic is divided into subtopics, and students become experts in one subtopic to teach their peers. It promotes interdependence by ensuring that every student's contribution is necessary for the group's overall understanding.

How do I use Jigsaw in my classroom effectively?

Start by dividing a lesson into 4-5 distinct segments and assigning one to each member of a 'home group.' Ensure you provide clear resources for the 'expert' phase so students feel confident before they return to teach their original group.

What are the benefits of the Jigsaw method for students?

The primary benefits include increased student engagement, improved social skills, and higher academic achievement through peer teaching. It specifically helps build empathy and reduces classroom hostility by requiring students to work toward a common goal.

What are the disadvantages of the Jigsaw method?

The main challenges are the potential for 'loafing' by unmotivated students or the spread of misinformation if an 'expert' does not understand their segment. Teachers can mitigate this by monitoring expert groups closely and providing high-quality guided materials.

How do you assess students in a Jigsaw activity?

Assessment should include both individual accountability and group success, typically through a quiz or reflection at the end of the session. This ensures that every student is held responsible for learning all segments of the material, not just their own.

Generate a Mission with Jigsaw

Use Flip Education to create a complete Jigsaw lesson plan, aligned to your curriculum and ready to use in class.

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