I often hear the debate of math groups vs. whole group math. I see the benefits of both, but when I was teaching 2nd grade small groups made all the difference. Students felt more comfortable asking me questions in a small group setting. I was able to change groups based on students needs and the topics we were discussing. It made math my favorite topic to teach. Now let's dive in a little deeper to the benefits and how to implement math groups.
Why do math groups?
Implementing math groups in the classroom offers a plethora of benefits that enhance students' mathematical proficiency and overall learning experience. By tailoring instruction to small groups, educators can address individual needs more effectively, providing targeted support and enrichment. Additionally, students gain confidence as they engage in peer interactions and receive personalized feedback. Math groups encourage active participation and reduce the fear of making mistakes, creating a supportive environment conducive to exploration and growth. Through differentiated instruction and meaningful engagement, math groups empower students to unlock their full potential and excel in mathematics.
How do you separate students into different groups?
This can be done in several different ways.
You can split your class into different groups based on their strengths in math. This method might get a bad rap, but sometimes it is the best method for a class. When using this method you can focus on specific skills based on what the group needs. It also makes it easy to provide enrichment opportunities. On the down side students who need extra help might notice they are struggling more and feel embarrassed. (see method #3 for a fix to this)
If you do not want to base it off of abilities, you can randomly split the class up. When doing this you will likely get a mix of strengths in one group which can be beneficial. Some students can help others and vice versa. When doing this it might be difficult to really focus on students who need help, and enrich the students who are looking for something a little more challenging.
Similar to method #1 , you can separate students into groups based off strengths, but this time strategically switch the groups up on a weekly basis. This will prevent students from becoming embarrassed about being in certain groups. You do not have to completely switch up the groups, just shuffle the students around a little so each group does not form a stigma.
What do other students do when I am working with a small group?
There are so many options for this! I am attaching a picture of what my math small group schedule looked like and I will break down each section for you!
Mrs. Ryan- This means the students come to me! I would work on whatever topic we were covering that day. I could do several different things during this time. Sometimes I would teach a new skill to the students, sometimes I would review what we discussed as a whole group, and other times I would go over a topic I knew students were struggling with.
Independent Work- This was a time that students had to work on their own. Sometimes it was a worksheet I created, a worksheet from their work book, or an activity that I wanted them to complete. They always turned this in. I want you to notice that students got to independent work after they worked with me. This is because they need to work with me before they go off and do their independent work. No group would do independent work before working with me.
Math Fact Practice- This was a time that students worked specifically on math facts. The type of math facts changed throughout the year. It might be addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division. I would make students a pack of math mazes and this was one activity they could complete. Another option was math wrap-ups. (These were provided to me by my school.) Students could do as man of these that they wanted to and they could self check their work using the back of the wrap-up. I also had a set of math fact flashcards that students loved to use. Another option is using an app that allows students to do math facts.
Math Games- This is everyone's favorite time! My students would use a deck of cards to compare numbers, add numbers together, find pairs that together make 10, find the difference between numbers, multiply, and more! I also had my students completing math puzzles at this time. I laminated some of them, so we could use them again and again! Some other options include math board games and math apps.
How long do you stay at each station?
I had each station going for 15 minutes. This was sufficient time for me to finish my small group and allowed students to finish their independent work before moving on.
What do I do if I need another station?
Some other options include manipulative station, task card stations, and math crafts!
I really hope that this eases some of your concerns about math small groups, and helps you start using them on the daily in your classroom!
Wishing you all the best,
Alyssa
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