Collaborative Conversation: Pair/Square Protocol

PAIR/SQUARE

A simple, effective cooperative learning structure developed by Dr. Frank Lyman (1977).

Teacher presents question or discussion topic.
PAIR: Students discuss the question or topic with a partner. Teacher listens in.
SQUARE: When signaled by the teacher, each pair of students finds another pair to join so that students are now in groups of four. Each foursome, or square, proceeds with the discussion in a small group.

Makes students an ACTIVE PART of whole class mini-lessons, read-alouds, and activities.
Allows all students to participate in conversations and practice speaking and listening skills.
Provides an opportunity for students to practice what the teacher has just modeled.
Gives students opportunities to rehearse their thoughts with a partner before sharing in a small group.
Extends student thinking by exposing them to multiple perspectives.

SAMPLE PRIMARY PAIR-/SQUARE ANCHOR CHART

SAMPLE INTERMEDIATE PAIR-/SQUARE ANCHOR CHART

Create and post an anchor chart with cues to teach and reinforce the process.
Assign children a partner and have them sit together.
Assign each partner pair another partner pair to build small groups.
Explain that sometimes we will discuss in pairs, but other times we will discuss in small groups. (Should be introduced after turn and talk/think-pair-share protocols are familiar to students)
Have two pairs of students model the process for the entire class. Be explicit about expectations for movement from pairs to squares.
Assign square groups and have all pairs practice quickly moving into squares.
Present a question or topic and have the students practice pairing, then squaring.
Circulate among the students and listen to their conversations.
Praise students for using active listening, for sharing their ideas, and for staying on topic.

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