Classroom Partner

Why should I do it:

• Creates a safer and less embarrassing and intimidating setting and climate for students to ask questions, express misunderstandings, etc.

• Allows students more opportunities for assistance

• Increases academic and behavioral support

• Provides frequent and constant redirection and refocusing

• Provides quicker feedback and attention

• Gives students one on one help and attention

• Helps students get to know other students and make friends and trusted relationships

• Increases student trust and rapport

• Increases classroom teaching efficiency

When should I do it:

• When a student is inattentive and unfocused

• When a student needs frequent one on one help

• When a student needs directions repeated a lot and concepts reviewed multiple times and ways

• When a student is apprehensive to ask questions or ask for help

• When a student gets overwhelmed and frustrated

• When a student needs extra help starting assignments

• When a student asks frequent questions and needs frequent clarification

How do I do it:

• A classroom partner may be used as part of a structured and routine procedure or on an as needed basis, depending on the student’s needs and teacher preference.

• Each classroom partner should be carefully matched to ensure that paired students are capable of working well together and always include one student who grasps the concepts and ideas well enough to explain to others.

• All reading/classroom partners should be given some basic ground rules before being allowed to work together, like:

  • Don’t do all the work for your partner.

  • Keep the focus on the work/assignment.

  • Avoid arguments and debates, support your opinions with information from your text or class notes.