This activity can be found in Pretty et al, (1995) - University of ...

Mt 05 BSG3.1Cooperative SquaresObjectiveTo experience and analyse some of the elements of cooperation, for individuals to lookat their own behaviour when working in a group or team.MaterialsFor each group of five people (one envelope with a set of 3 shapes per person)♦ Five envelopes labelled A, B, C, D and E♦ Five pieces of thin card 15cm square cut into the shapes exactly as shown inthe figures below. All the cuts are either to a corner or to the middle of a side. Itis essential that you measure and cut accurately. Label the pieces as indicatedand put the pieces into the corresponding envelopes, i.e. all the ‘a’ pieces intothe ‘A’ envelope, all the ‘b’ pieces into the ‘B’ envelope….If there are a number of groups it may help if the envelopes are labelled with anumber or colour (“pink A, pink B etc or 1A, 1B”, etc.).c e c a a c d abd e bbedProcedure1 Explain that this exercise allows us to look at what is essential for successfulgroup cooperation. Ask participants to form groups of five and to sit around atable. (It is also good to have some observers who will watch the actions of theparticipants, either a specific group or a number of groups.)2 Give each group of 5 a set of envelopes labelled A to E, there is one envelope foreach participant. They may not open the envelope yet.Read the instructions to the whole group:“Each of you has an envelope with pieces of card for forming squares. When Igive the signal to begin, take out the pieces. The task of the group is to form fivesquares of equal size.There are two important rules:♦♦No one may speak or signal – the task must be done in silenceNo one may take or ask for a piece from any other person, but they maygive their pieces to others”53 Jamaica All Age Schools Project: Facilitator Training for School Based Resource Teachers