It is important decide which way of grouping learners or interaction patterns to use in planning our lessona. The patterns to use depends on learners ans learning styles, our own teaching style, preferences, approaches, learning context, type of activity, aim, purpose and stage in the lesson.
There are some instances of interaction patterns that we can use:
Activity | Interaction pattern | Reason for using interaction pattern |
| Brainstorming | 1. Group of pairs: students working with other students 2. Students to the teacher (feedback) | Reviews and shares students´ knowledge of vocabulary and/or structure and the topic or context;develops learning strategies; energises the students and gets them all involved. |
Bingo Game | 1. Whole class: teacher to the students. 2. Students to the teacher | Reviews students´ undertanding of vocabulary; gives a change of pace, gives the teacher feedback: energises. |
Class survey | 1. Mingling activity: students move around the classroom asking questions of other students. 2. Groups or pairs (students compare and discuss their answers). 3. Teacher asks different students in the class what they found out (feedback) | Gives students practice in all four skills and in managing their learning; gives opportunities for large amounts of practice; gives a change of pace; develops learner autonomy; every student in the class is active and involved. |
Spratt, M., Pulverness, A., & Williams, M. (2012). The TKT Course Modules 1,2 and 3 (2nd ed.). New York: Cambridge University Press.