PIGS and Cooperative Learning

A type of lesson that was completely new to me this semester was the cooperative learning lesson. This lesson is different than other types of lessons because it follows the PIGS model. PIGS is an acronym that stands for..


Positive interdependence:

• Each group member is given a specific role and responsibility
• Each member must participate for the whole group to succeed

Individual Accountability:

• Each member must demonstrate master of the content
• Each member is accountable for the whole group's learning and/or work

Group Processing:

• The group self-assesses their productivity and makes decisions about how to make improvements

Social Skills:

• For cooperative learning to be effective, students must learn Social Skills for successful cooperation.

Social Skills to develop include:

a. Trust Building

b. Communication

c. Decision Making Strategies

d. Conflict Resolution

e. Leadership Skills