Cooperative Learning Lesson Plan

Mary Kate Sammon

EDP 621

Title: Find the Pattern

Grade: Kindergarten

Goals: Each group will create a pattern using pieces of pattern packet.

Abstract: As a follow up to previous instruction on patterns and extending patterns, will apply their skills. Small groups will work together to create a pattern using all pieces in their pattern envelope.

Materials:

Six pattern packets containing the following materials

  • Four small bags with 8 squares of assorted colors that complete a pattern. (The pattern can be made more challenging by adding assorted shapes.) A typical packet would include three blue and red and two green.
  • Each pattern packet will have a different pattern
  • Here is an example square:

Each bag would contain a different pattern, the same colors could be utilized or different colors may be used.

Procedure:

  1. Prior to introducing this activity, introduce patterns, extending patterns and creating patterns with students.
  2. Each student will pick a stick with assorted colored dots out of a container.
  3. Students will then form groups based on the color dot they have chosen.
  4. The students will then be instructed that they are to open the contents of the envelope and use all squares to create a pattern.
  5. Each group will then receive an envelope.
  6. Students will be given 10 minutes to find the pattern.
  7. The groups would then be asked questions by the teacher.
  1. What is the pattern?
  2. What color will come next?

Elements of Cooperative Learning

  • Individual Accountability: Each student will be responsible for being able to answer the two questions.
  • Positive Interdependence: Each group member will need to support team members in learning the pattern and what will come next in the pattern.
  • Social Skills/Face to Face Interaction: The students will need to use communication skills to share ideas and listen for others ideas. The will work together with hands on interaction to create the pattern.
  • Heterogeneous Grouping: The children will be placed in groups by randomly choosing sticks with colored dots on the ends.
  • Evaluation: Students will receive credit for completing their pattern and the group will receive credit for answering the questions.
  • Trust: The students must feel comfortable with each other in order to work well together.