This activity exposes children to group problem solving, and the concept that we all benefit from sharing resources. It also gives them practice in connecting with others.
Skills Addressed
Communication
Connecting with Others
Cooperation
Critical Thinking
Function in Group
Independence
Sorting
Vocabulary
Activity Details
Print out 2 copies of Cooperative Shape Puzzle PDF on card stock. Each shape is a different color. Cut one copy of each into 4 pieces, and keep one copy intact as a sample.
Show the children the intact pictures. Ask them to identify the colors and shapes.
Next, tell them they have a puzzle to solve – they will each have part of a shape and will work together to make a whole shape that matches the picture.
Give each child a piece of a shape. Tell them to find the other kids with similar shape and color. If you have extra pieces after passing them out, tell the kids that you have them, and be available to supply the missing pieces when needed.
Children then must track down others with pieces of their shape. When they think they have all the pieces, they work together to create the shape and solve the puzzle.
