Guided Math Chapter 4

Hmmmmm…..  How much of my instruction is whole class?  I would have to say almost all….

Our school district uses enVision, and we are required to implement it with fidelity.  Thus, I have a very structured routine.  Students begin on the rug, in their assigned seat, next to their talking partner.  I introduce a topic and give them a task.  This is an introduction to our skill for the day.  Students then move to their seats.  Depending on the day students may work alone, with a partner (shoulder or across the street) or with their entire table.  This goes on for 10 to 15 minutes.  Then they come back to the rug for a visual learning, video provided by enVision.  During the video I stop and discuss key pieces.  Students may turn and talk to their partner depending on my instruction.  When we have gotten through the video/instructional piece, I send students back to their seats.  This is where I can begin to pull small groups during the guided practice portion of the lesson.  I am super fortunate to have had an ELL aide and a paraprofessional in my room during math.  My ELL aide pulls a small group of 4-5 students to the back table.  My paraprofessional takes 2 sometimes 3 students into our office area for less distractions.  This leaves me between 10 and 12 students.  I do a few problems with the group, and send my high fliers on their way.

(My high fliers, finish quickly and I give them math games to practice skills already taught. )

I stick with the group and release a few more after two more problems.  Then I stick with the 4-5 students that need additional support.  I can re-teach and remediate. 

I use this routine every day, since it is "required" by our district.

I use whole group instruction E-V-E-R-Y day.  I start with it and then break into smaller groups, later in my math instruction.  It may not be ideal, but has been effective.  I do make sure our introductory activity is completed in small groups or with partners.  Also, after the video lesson, we do break into small groups.  I know I am not as fortunate as all teachers to have 2 adults that are in my room nearly every day. 

Next year, is a new story, as I have no idea if I will have any other help.  

I plan to use Guided Math during the instructional/guided practice portion of my lesson. That way I will be able to give support to those that need extra help.  I can differentiate the lesson for my high fliers to keep them learning too!

I am working to incorporate a "Math Huddle" into my day.  I love using the calendar time to start as a springboard.  I also plan to use more mathematical literature.  

Some of my favorites are

Measuring Penny

Tally O'Malley

Two of Everything

A Fair Bear Share 

Which book is your favorite?

Leave me your favorite math read aloud in the comments!

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