Abstract: This study analyzes and integrates the research achievement about cooperative learning both abroad and at home, presents a variety of definitions given by different experts and scholars, and analyzes the significance of cooperative learning in English classrooms of junior school. The writer observed the actual application of cooperative learning in English classrooms of junior school, analyzed the cases, and proposes her opinions focusing on the deficiencies of the current situation. Furthermore, according to the theory and actual application of cooperative learning, this paper presents some advice for conducting a successful cooperative learning in English classrooms of junior high school.

Key words：Cooperative Learning; English; in classrooms; actual application

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction..1

2. Literature Review and Theoretical Framework1

2.1 Definition of Cooperative Learning

2.2 Analysis of the Definitions

2.3 Elements of Cooperative Learning

2.3.1 The Elements of Johnson brothers

2.3.2 The Elements of Slavin

2.3.3 The Elements of Kagan

2.3.4 Analysis of the Elements

2.4 Significance of Cooperative Learning

3. Cases of Cooperative Learning..4

3.1 Cooperative Learning in Role Play

3.2 Cooperative Learning in Information Gathering

3.3 Cooperative Learning in Debate

4. Deficiencies in the Application and Advice for Junior school Teachers7

4.1 Deficiencies in the Application

4.1.1 Improper Tasks

4.1.2 Lack of Teacher’s Guide, Facilitation and Assessment

4.1.3 Lack of Social Skills

4.2 Advice for Junior School Teachers

4.2.1 Design a Proper Task

4.2.2 Exert the Teacher’s Positive Effects

4.2.3 Help Students Develop Social Skills

4.2.4 Combine Cooperative Learning with Other Teaching Methods

5. Conclusion..10

Bibliography.. 11

Acknowledgements12