Jigsaw Method

Term from Teaching industry explained for recruiters

The Jigsaw Method is a teaching strategy that makes students work together to learn. Think of it like a real jigsaw puzzle where each student has a crucial piece of information. Students are first placed in "home groups" where each person is assigned different material to learn. They then meet with others studying the same topic in "expert groups" to master it. Finally, they return to their home groups to teach what they learned to their teammates. It's similar to other collaborative learning approaches like Think-Pair-Share or Station Rotation. Teachers use this to help students learn from each other and stay engaged, rather than just listening to lectures.

Examples in Resumes

Increased student engagement 40% through implementing Jigsaw Method in science classes

Trained new teachers in using Jigsaw Learning techniques for classroom management

Applied Jigsaw Teaching Method to improve student collaboration and comprehension in social studies

Typical job title: "Teachers"

Also try searching for:

Classroom Teacher Education Specialist Instructional Coach Curriculum Developer Educational Consultant Learning Specialist Professional Development Trainer

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Teacher Questions

Q: How would you train other teachers to implement the Jigsaw Method effectively?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they would demonstrate the method, common challenges to watch for, and strategies for success. Should mention practical examples and ways to adapt the method for different subjects and grade levels.

Q: How do you modify the Jigsaw Method for students with different learning needs?

Expected Answer: Should discuss adaptations for various learning styles, accommodations for special needs students, and strategies for differentiated instruction while maintaining the collaborative nature of the method.

Intermediate Teacher Questions

Q: What challenges have you faced using the Jigsaw Method and how did you overcome them?

Expected Answer: Should describe specific situations like handling absent students, managing time effectively, or dealing with varying student abilities, and explain their solutions.

Q: How do you assess student learning when using the Jigsaw Method?

Expected Answer: Should explain various assessment strategies like individual quizzes, group presentations, or peer evaluations to ensure all students have learned the material.

Beginning Teacher Questions

Q: Explain the basic steps of implementing the Jigsaw Method in a classroom.

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of forming home groups, expert groups, and how students share information, showing understanding of the basic structure.

Q: What are the benefits of using the Jigsaw Method for student learning?

Expected Answer: Should mention benefits like increased student engagement, development of communication skills, and how it promotes both individual accountability and group cooperation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic implementation of Jigsaw Method
  • Classroom management fundamentals
  • Group formation and monitoring
  • Simple assessment techniques

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Adapting Jigsaw for different subjects
  • Managing diverse learning needs
  • Creating effective group dynamics
  • Developing assessment strategies

Senior (5+ years)

  • Training others in Jigsaw Method
  • Curriculum integration expertise
  • Advanced differentiation strategies
  • Mentoring and program development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic Jigsaw Method steps
  • No experience with group work management
  • Lack of understanding about assessment strategies
  • Poor communication skills
  • No knowledge of differentiated instruction