NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What type of learning activity is 'jigsaw reading' classified as?

1. Individual learning

2. Collaborative group learning

3. Traditional lecture-style learning

4. Independent research learning

The correct answer is: Collaborative group learning

Jigsaw reading is classified as a collaborative group learning activity. This approach involves students working together in small groups to piece together information from a larger reading or text by sharing their individual findings. Each student is assigned a specific section of the text, becomes an expert on that portion, and then teaches it to their peers. This method not only promotes peer learning and engagement but also encourages students to take responsibility for their learning and the learning of others. The collaborative aspect of jigsaw reading enhances comprehension and retention of the material, as students actively participate in discussion and explanation. This contrasts with other learning methods, such as individual learning, where students work independently without collaboration, or traditional lecture-style learning, where a teacher primarily disseminates information to a passive audience. Independent research learning also differs, as it typically involves solitary exploration and study without group interaction or shared knowledge.