Jigsaw Activity Lesson: Conservation of the Amazon Rainforest by Mr.James Churchward
Active Learning: Jigsaw Activity
Lesson: Conservation of the Amazon Rainforest
Article by: James Churchward
Photos by: Ms. Supaporn Thaichaiyon
As an ESL teacher, encouraging a holistic learning experience is important to engaging students in meaningful ways. Recently, we conducted an active learning lesson aimed at enhancing our students' research skills, teamwork, and understanding of humans’ impact on nature.
Using a Jigsaw approach, we divided the class into seven teams, and assigned each team a topic related to the Amazon Rainforest. The topics ranged from the importance of rainforests and biodiversity to the consequences of deforestation, environmental threats, connections to native tribes, and conservation efforts. This approach not only encouraged teamwork but also allowed each student to become an expert on their assigned topic.
Once teams and topics were assigned, we moved to the school library and got stuck into many resources, combining internet research with traditional book exploration. With this information the students answered the questions related to their topics resulting in a collection of knowledge related to the Amazon Rainforest and nature conservation.
In the following class, the students took part in a presentation created using their findings from the previous class. The combined findings meant that students could learn from the other teams. Also, to add an element of fun and to reinforce their new knowledge, a team quiz was conducted. This was done to assess their understanding and to transform the learning experience into an enjoyable challenge.
This two-part class allowed students to refine their research skills and to promote independent learning. Furthermore, the jigsaw approach allowed students to work in teams and to nurture their teamwork and leadership skills. All these skills are essential for students in higher education and the professional working world.
Through this immersive research of rainforests, students not only gained valuable knowledge but also developed an increased awareness of environmental issues. This lesson exemplifies the importance of combining research, teamwork, and interactive quizzes to create an engaging and impactful learning experience for ESL students.
