Procedure

1. Create a deck of cards containing several matching pairs (or sets) of cards according to the chosen topic.

2. Prepare enough decks of cards for each group. (Consider storing sets of cards in envelopes or zip-top bags.)

3. Have students divide into groups of 2–3 students.

4. Give each group a deck of cards, with the task of finding the cards that match.

5. As students work on matching their cards, circulate the room and ask different students why they matched certain cards together. Not only will students be talking about their thinking within their group, but now also with you. Be sure to listen carefully to students’ justifications for their match. Students may select the right match, but their reasoning may be faulty.

Math Example: Students could be given 24 cards: 8 with graphs, 8 with equations, and 8 with intercepts. Students would be asked to match the cards—one of each type—to create 8 groups of cards where the graph and intercepts match the equation.