I’ve been using a Guided Math structure in my classroom for a few years now, and I’ve seen the benefits first-hand. This math workshop or daily 3 math (plus my teacher group!) structure has changed how my students interact with math.
Here are my Top 5 best reasons for using Guided Math in your classroom.
Supporting every child in a whole-group lesson is impossible.
Teachers work hard to create lessons that will impact as many students as possible, but let’s face it… You cannot meet the needs of every child during a whole-group lesson. We all have them: struggling students working well below grade level, disengaged students daydreaming about other things, and high-achievers requiring a more significant challenge than most of their peers. When using a Guided Math approach, students work directly with the teacher in small groups while the rest of the class is engaged in meaningful, related activities. Each group receives instruction at a level appropriate for the needs of the children within it.
More small-group time means you know your students well.
When you can spend quality teaching time with just a handful of students at a time, you learn quickly what their strengths and needs are. Students are more likely to take risks, share ideas & opinions, and try new things in a small group because their comfort level increases. You can quickly modify, redirect, support, or praise as you carefully observe students working!
Rotation activities make planning and preparation easier!
When you only need to prepare a selection of centers for your students to rotate between throughout the week, you are ultimately left with more time to concentrate on your groups and planning quality lessons for each ability level. Once my centers are ready (and I prepare and laminate them to last for years to come!), I can devote my time to planning activities perfect for each student.
You can see my independent centers and teacher-directed lessons here:
Students love it!
My students can’t get enough of our Guided Math time! They love the centers I provide for them and are always excited about the time they spend with me in their small group. My students feel safe, supported, and successful, which is a win for me!
Grab a FREE set of centers to try with your students here:
It Works!!
I wouldn’t continue using Guided Math with my students if I didn’t see the success that I did. The fact is, it works. Most of my students were achieving at or beyond grade level this past year, and those who weren’t quite there were at least approaching where I’d like them to be.
I love the flexibility I have with Guided Math – if I see a student or group struggling, I can meet with them for additional support while knowing the others are continuing to practice essential skills.
Wondering how to get started?
Like any program that is truly worth doing, Guided Math takes time to implement. Like The Daily 5, Guided Math groups require clear expectations and time for training your students. Read all about how I set up and manage my Guided Math time at this first in a series of Guided Math posts:
Grab your FREE Guided Math Starter Kit here:
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