A collaborative crossword is a form of barrier exercise or split information task. Adapt a crossword so that each student has some of the answers and some of the clues. Each student must find the missing answers/clues by asking their partner.
Alternatively the students are given either Crossword A (which has the clues across) or Crossword B (which has the clues down) and must take turns to read the clues to their buddy. Together they discuss what the answer/word would be and then both write it on their crossword in the correct space provided.
This activity provides students with opportunities to practise speaking clearly and listening carefully. It also encourages discussion, the use of topic specific vocabulary and reinforces meanings of concepts and vocabulary.
Watch this short video to see a year 5–6 visual arts class using collaborative crosswords
Teaching and learning sequence planning examples:
Primary level:
Secondary level:
Published on: 19 Jan 2018
