Think-Pair-Share is a constructivist teaching strategy that has three elements to it. First, for the “think” element, students complete a task independently, such as drawing a picture, recording an observation, or drafting a critique. Next, for the “pair” element, students either are assigned to or select a classmate. The two students then exchange works and ideas about the task they completed from the “think” element and give each other feedback and common prompts used to stimulate feedback are for the students to find strengths areas for improvement in each other’s work. Finally, for the “share” element, the teacher facilities a class discussion that offers students the opportunities to present their work to the class community.
When planning a think-pair-share activity, decide on the following:
1. How long will students have to complete each of the think-pair-share’s elements?
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- 5-10 minutes per element is recommended.
2. How will students be held accountable for their learning during the think-pair-share activity?
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- One way is for students to submit or show their work from the “think” activity.
3. How will teachers prompt class discussion?
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- Teachers can prepare prompts that build off the “pair” activity. For example,