I love the random group generators available in the SMART Notebook gallery.  After searching “random,” look under the “multimedia” category.  I use the one pictured above and include student numbers rather than names.  Since this grouping tool is part of many different SMART files (reading, math, science, writing), I want to keep it general enough to be used year after year.  After entering number/names, chose the number of groups you’d like to make.  Then “generate” to see the random groupings.  If a student is absent and you want to remove his/her number/name, do this on the first page before generating.  Then be sure you don’t leave an empty fields.  The function will only group the students prior to the open slot.  The quick fix it to move the last number/name of your class into the empty spot.