Clustering

I used clustering (#11) in my classroom last week. Through researching, I found it interesting that this strategy can be used both as an introduction to new material or as a review near the end of a unit. Different members of my group used the strategy at different points of the Gradual Release Model. I first used clustering with my Physical Science students in order to prepare for a test on the Periodic Table. I chose to do it with these classes because sometimes we get so far into the details of a subject that we miss the "big picture" By using clustering, students could see where all the details that we had been talking about with the periodic table could be organized into larger categories. I learned that students liked that we were organizing the information. Other teachers were teaching classes when I did clustering, so no one was able to attend. I also was teaching when my group members were clustering, so I was unable to see them do it. However, many of us eat lunch together so we have spent time discussing how we used clustering in our classes. It was interesting to hear all the different ways that it can be implemented.