Lesson Idea | Jigsaw Strategy for 5th Grade Social Studies Class

This 5th grade social studies lesson uses the Jigsaw strategy to study the Civil War, with students taking on the role of teacher for specific topics from the textbook. After reviewing the chapter headings as a class, students are assigned to research groups to gather information on their topic, prepare presentations, and then return to their original Jigsaw groups to teach their peers. Throughout the process, the teacher monitors progress, provides feedback, and facilitates both journal reflections and large-group discussions to review the strategy. All students are tested on the complete unit, ensuring accountability. This cooperative approach promotes teamwork, research, presentation skills, and peer teaching, and is well-suited for middle and upper elementary students in content areas where understanding concepts is the primary goal.