PALS ~ Peer Assisted Learning Strategy
Peer Assisted Learning Strategy
is a class-wide peer coaching program.
In this strategy, teachers appropriately place students in pairs. The pairs work collectively on activities
that address the academic needs of both students. The pairs are frequently assessed and change
as needed. PALS can be used across the
content areas and is especially effective for students with Learning
Disabilities.
This strategy gives the
teacher the freedom to circulate in the classroom, observe and take anecdotal
notes, and offer remediation when needed.
This strategy is perfect for Differentiated
Instruction.
1. Select pairs of students by identifying which
students need help on specific skill and who the most appropriate students are
to help other students learn those skills.
2. Each member of the pair takes turns being the “coach”
and the “reader.” The roles are changed frequently
and over time as the students work on different skills. This way everyone has the chance to be the
coach and the reader.
The teacher instructs
students how to use the PALS strategy.
1. As the reader reads aloud, the coach listens and
offers corrective feedback.
2. This should be a 25 – 30 minute activity.
3. The PALS strategy should be used 2 - 4 times a
week to be effective.
4. Always grant students points for good coaching
and reading.
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