- Definition
This is when your child first thinks about a problem alone, then discusses it with a classmate, and finally shares their combined ideas with the whole class.
First, your child thinks quietly about what a painting makes them feel, then they tell a partner, and then they share their paired idea with the class.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Think-pair-share is like first thinking about what to draw, then whispering with a friend to plan it, and finally showing your drawing to everyone.
Ask your child: What's your quiet idea before you whisper it to a friend?
Common mix-up: Kids might think this is just about talking to a friend. The key is that everyone gets quiet time to think of their own idea first.
Examples
- Thinking of a way to move like an animal, trying it with a partner, then showing the class.
- Thinking of a title for a class mural, deciding on one with a partner, and then sharing it.
think-pair-share is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
