Help: Working in a group

1. Group work
A survival guide
Here are our top ten tips for making
your group work a successful,
rewarding and enjoyable learning
experience.
IM II English

2. ADVICE
Tip 1
Read the task instructions
The task instructions will provide:
- a clear description of the task
- an explanation of the different stages of the task and what needs to
be done for each stage
Before starting work with your team, you should know this information.

3. ADVICE
Tip 2
Respect deadlines
To organise the different parts of
the task your team will need to
agree on deadlines.
Tip 3
Keep in touch
If you can’t meet a deadline,
inform the other members of your
team as soon as possible and let
them know when your part of the
work will be ready.

4. ADVICE
Tip 4
Be understanding
Sometimes a team member may
find it difficult to meet a deadline
for reasons beyond their control.
If this happens, allow them some
extra time to do their part of the
work.
Tip 5
Respect differences
Team members may have their
own unique strengths and
weaknesses. For example, you
may be very good at writing but
weaker when speaking (or vice-
versa).

5. ADVICE
Tip 6
Accept and give feedback
Always give your feedback in a
respectful, constructive way and
avoid personal criticism.
You should also accept the
feedback the other team
members give you.
Tip 7
Create a great team
atmosphere
Be polite.
Be positive.
Be appreciative of other people.
Be participative.
Do your part to make the
experience positive and
enjoyable.

6. ADVICE
Tip 8
Focus on the task
Don’t get distracted by things that
aren’t important for the task.
Make your contributions count.
Keep in mind what you need to
accomplish.
Tip 9
Work hard
For all the activities, be
responsible. Everyone needs to
do their part.

7. ADVICE
Tip 10
Contact the teacher
Sometimes you may need to let your teacher know about problems:
- timing: if your team needs an extension to the deadline.
- conflict: if someone in your team disappears without informing you or
is not doing their share of the work.

8. REMEMBER
If you follow this advice,
• your team will work well together.
• you’ll learn more English.
• you’ll enjoy the learning process.
• you’ll produce better quality work.