Learning about Area, Perimeter, and Fractions with and from Peers

Introduction

When students work in small groups they are given the opportunity to communicate with their peers about mathematics. Small groups provide a forum in which students can ask questions, discuss ideas, make mistakes, learn to listen to others' ideas, and offer constructive criticism. A small group environment where students feel secure asking questions and responding to their peers' ideas may, in turn, support similar communication patterns in whole group situations.

This Reflection activity contains two video clips. Each clip shows students working in groups in mathematics classes. Focusing and reflection questions are provided for each video clip to assist you as you view these students who are learning with and from their peers.

References