Thanks, Cheryl! This is without question an OUTSTANDING outline of steps to ensure that expectations of desired outcomes are made clear and maximum learning value is achieved when utilizing student groups in the classroom. Bravo! Perhaps of particular importance as you have stressed, is that using a learning group, as an instructional tool, is very much a planned activity rather than simply a way to spend class time. It takes thought and guidance in order for learning groups to achieve results, and can even be a way to authentically assess student performance. Jay ED106