Is the Task Interdependent or Not?

Students are working in teams of four to analyze different characters in a novel. Each student chooses a different character and writes a solo essay. Afterward, they share their essays with the group.

Is this an interdependent task?

• Yes

• No

Students are given a science challenge: “Design a water filter that can clean muddy water using only the materials provided.” Each group receives a toolkit and must test, refine, and present their design. Each student has a role (e.g., tester, recorder, material manager, timekeeper).

Is this an interdependent task?

• Yes

• No

A teacher assigns a math worksheet with 20 problems. Students are told to sit in groups but complete the problems individually. At the end, they compare answers.

Is this an interdependent task?

• Yes

• No

In a history class, students receive different primary sources (letters, newspaper articles, speeches) about a historical event. Each student analyzes their source, then they work together to construct a shared timeline and argument about the causes of the event.

Is this an interdependent task?

• Yes

• No

Students are given a task: “Create a poster summarizing the five key causes of the American Revolution.” No specific roles are assigned. Some students dominate the conversation, others are silent.

Is this an interdependent task?

• Yes

• No