1 Optimize the physical space.
2 Set rules for how students should treat each other.
3 Frequently vary groups to create fresh dynamics.
4 Assign roles and responsibilities: leader, timekeeper, record keeper etc.
5 Make it challenging – group work isn’t an excuse for easy work.
6 Try team-bonding exercises to break the ice.
7 Have other such ‘lightning’ exercises to hand in case energy starts to flag.
8 Give written instructions, and outline what the outcome should look like.
9 Recognize and reward students for working as a group, as much for reaching the ‘right answer’.
10 Evaluate your own performance. Were instructions clear? Did you give enough time? Did you resolve conflicts? Anything you’d improve on next time?
