Peer Assisted Learning Strategies for the Classroom

Collaboration in the classroom is critical to student success. One evidence-based approach that has gained traction across grade levels is Peer Assisted Learning Strategies. Whether in reading or math, this structured approach helps students learn from each other while strengthening their own skills.

What Is Peer Assisted Learning?

Peer assisted learning is an instructional approach where students work in pairs or small groups to support one another’s academic progress. Unlike casual group work, it is structured with defined roles, routines, and teacher guidance.

When students explain concepts, ask questions, and guide each other through problem-solving, they reinforce their own learning while helping peers succeed. This strategy is widely used in reading and math and has been proven effective across grade levels.

Benefits of Peer Assisted Learning

• Encourages active participation from all students
• Provides immediate feedback and correction opportunities
• Builds confidence for both higher and lower achieving learners
• Enhances communication and teamwork skills

What Are Peer Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS)?

Peer Assisted Learning Strategies (PALS) is a research-based program designed to maximize the benefits of peer collaboration. Developed by education researchers, PALS organizes students into structured pairs, typically pairing a higher-achieving student with a peer who needs more support.

During PALS sessions, students complete guided activities, take on rotating roles (such as “coach” or “reader"), and work through carefully designed practice tasks. Teachers monitor and facilitate, but students take the lead in driving their learning.

Peer Assisted Learning Strategies in Math

One of the most effective applications is peer assisted learning strategies in math. Math is often challenging for students, and working with a peer can reduce anxiety, while boosting confidence.

Examples of PALS in Math

• Problem-Solving Partners: One student solves a math problem while the other checks the answer.
• Fluency Games: Pairs practice multiplication or addition facts in a timed, game-like format.
• Think-Aloud Strategies: Students explain their reasoning step-by-step, reinforcing conceptual understanding.
• Collaborative Word Problems: Pairs break down multi-step word problems together.

By verbalizing their thought process, students strengthen comprehension, catch errors, and develop stronger problem-solving skills.

Benefits of Peer Assisted Learning Strategies

PALS can significantly improve achievement across subjects. Some key benefits include:

• Higher engagement: Students are more motivated when working with peers
• Improved comprehension: Teaching and explaining concepts reinforces mastery
• Differentiated support: Lower-achieving students get more practice and feedback, while higher-achieving students solidify their understanding by teaching
• Social-emotional growth: Collaboration builds communication, empathy, and teamwork

Teachers looking to implement peer assisted learning strategies can begin with small, structured activities and clear modeling of expectations. Over time, these routines become second nature, creating a classroom where collaboration naturally fuels learning.