How does Think Pair Share work?
Think Pair Share is an interactive and collaborative learning strategy that encourages students to engage deeply with the material and develop critical thinking skills. This method is particularly effective in classrooms where active participation and peer-to-peer interaction are encouraged. In this article, we will explore how Think Pair Share works, its benefits, and how educators can implement it in their teaching practices.
The Think Pair Share process typically consists of three main steps: Think, Pair, and Share. Let’s delve into each step to understand the process better.
1. Think
The first step in Think Pair Share is the “Think” phase. During this phase, students are given a specific prompt or question related to the lesson. The purpose of this prompt is to encourage students to independently think about the topic at hand. This could be in the form of a question, a problem-solving scenario, or an analysis of a piece of text. The duration of this phase can vary depending on the complexity of the prompt and the students’ familiarity with the topic.
2. Pair
After the “Think” phase, students are asked to form pairs with a peer. This pairing is often done randomly, but it can also be strategically planned to pair students with diverse backgrounds or abilities. During the “Pair” phase, students discuss their thoughts, ideas, and solutions they came up with during the “Think” phase. This step promotes peer-to-peer learning and allows students to benefit from each other’s perspectives and insights.
3. Share
The final step in Think Pair Share is the “Share” phase. In this phase, each pair presents their thoughts and ideas to the class. This presentation can take various forms, such as a short speech, a poster, or a group activity. The purpose of this phase is to foster a classroom environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and to encourage active listening among classmates.
Benefits of Think Pair Share
Think Pair Share offers several benefits for both students and educators:
1. Encourages active participation: By engaging in discussions and presentations, students are more likely to stay focused and participate actively in the lesson.
2. Develops critical thinking skills: The process of thinking, discussing, and presenting ideas helps students develop their critical thinking abilities.
3. Promotes peer-to-peer learning: Students learn from each other’s perspectives and experiences, which can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.
4. Enhances communication skills: Sharing ideas and thoughts with others helps students improve their communication skills, including listening, speaking, and presenting.
Implementing Think Pair Share in the Classroom
Educators can implement Think Pair Share in their classrooms by following these steps:
1. Plan the lesson: Choose a topic and develop a prompt or question that encourages deep thinking and discussion.
2. Organize the class: Divide students into pairs or small groups, ensuring that the pairing is done thoughtfully.
3. Introduce the Think Pair Share process: Explain the three steps (Think, Pair, Share) and provide clear instructions for each phase.
4. Monitor and facilitate: Observe the pairs during the Think and Pair phases and offer guidance or support if needed. Encourage students to share their thoughts openly during the Share phase.
5. Reflect and evaluate: After the activity, reflect on the effectiveness of Think Pair Share and consider how it can be improved for future lessons.
In conclusion, Think Pair Share is a valuable learning strategy that can enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and peer-to-peer interaction. By following the Think Pair Share process, educators can create a dynamic and interactive classroom environment that fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
