I do a lot of various differentiation activities for reading
skills in my classroom. But after
reading some articles on differentiation, I have realized that I do not do
enough in math. So I decided to try
something new. I decided that on
Fridays, I would try differentiated math centers.
I looked at what skills I was teaching and then where the
kids were at on these skills. I then
used flexible grouping to group the kids according to where they needed more
practice or where they needed some advanced tasks. I pulled out activities and games to help
either master a skill or extend the learning.
I used the first 15 minutes of our math time to explain what
we would be doing. I also used that time
to define expectations and to let them know that I would be going around to
each group to observe and assist. I then
used the remaining 20 minutes for the students to work in their groups while I
went around to each group and checked in, helped and asked questions.
Overall, I feel this went pretty well. It was the first time, so it was a little
rough going. I had kids getting up and
coming over to me instead of raising hands and waiting for me to come to
them. Although this is expected the
first time, especially with 1st graders, I think with time and practice,
this will get better. I do think the
idea is good though. I think the kids
benefit from getting a little extra support or some advanced learning. I plan on trying it again next Friday and look
forward to seeing gains.
Jen,
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree that setting those expectations and practicing them will help! I don't mean to sound "preachy" but do you have some visuals that you could post that might help them remember the expectations? Or maybe asking them what expectations THEY feel are needed to help it go smoothly? I give you a LOT of credit as I can only imagine that your little first graders (still technically kinders..this early in the year) are very independent! I'm anxious to see how tomorrow goes!