These problems are not like normal homework problems to be done after just reading the chapter. Instead, they are assignments that should be done in the context of an actual group activity to improve group process. Although a group of four or five students is envisioned, the exercises will work with somewhat larger or smaller groups. They are often used during class sessions so that the instructor can provide immediate feedback.

In turn, each group member describes the last homework assignment submitted, sharing the strategy used to solve the problem. The assignment chosen should have been done individually. After each member’s strategy has been described, the group should discuss the value in each strategy. The goal is not to rank the strategies but to develop respect for each strategy through constructive discussion.

After the discussion, the group answers the question, “What have we learned from this exercise?”