let them do it wrong first!

Welcome to the Math Rundown!

Here’s your weekly mix of math tips and tricks, resources, and things to think about, all centered around a different math topic or teacher frustration each week.

This week’s topic is how to teach small group routines.

3 Things to Decide Before Starting Small Groups

A silent signal or pass system for bathroom breaks, so a group doesn't grind to a halt every time someone needs to step out
A timer or transition song that cues clean-up and rotation, so kids know it's time to switch without you saying a word
A designated spot for materials, so nobody's interrupting your group to ask where the counting bears are

2 Ways to Teach Routines

Create a "looks like / sounds like" expectation chart together, so kids have a visual anchor for what independent and small group time should actually look and sound like
Model the right way and the wrong way, then let students practice. The contrast helps it stick way better than just telling them the rule

1 Way to Find out More

I go deeper on modeling small group routines (plus the exact questions I ask myself before I start groups) in this post: Model Small Group Routines for Primary Math Instruction

Now I want to hear from you:

What's falling apart during your small group time right now? Is it transitions, noise level, independent work, or something else? Hit reply and let me know!

Thanks for letting me be part of your teaching journey this year.

Cheryl

56 Richard Ave
Severn, MD 21144, USA