Question or Topic:

“Our PLC decided on these two ideas on what we need additional help for: smaller grouping ideas and intervention ideas. For smaller grouping ideas, we have students collaborate with their main group, but are looking for other ideas on how to break those groups up so students are working with other classmates. If that makes sense? I know you’ve shared other ideas through the newsletters, so a refresher of those would be helpful.”

What:

Flexible grouping is at the heart of differentiated instruction. It provides opportunities for students to be part of many different groups based on their readiness, interest, or learning style. These groups may be homogenous or heterogenous. They may be student-selected or teacher-selected. Group assignments may be purposeful or random. Groups may work together for a day or a month. Flexible grouping also provides opportunities for independent work.

Why:

The more flexible a teacher's approach, the better they are able to adapt to the room and the higher the chances are of increased student participation and engagement – ensuring that no child loses focus or zones out for tasks. There are many benefits to flexible grouping:

• Fluid strategy that responds to student needs 

• Provides opportunities for students to interact with a variety of peers 

• Develops collaborative skills 

• Creates a sense of classroom community 

• Eliminates tracking 

• Develops independent work skills 

• Develops flexibility

How/Resources:

• Grouping Students in Math - Maneuvering the Middle

• Group Students - Strategies that Work - Just Add Students

• A Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Students to Work in Groups - Edutopia

• Assisting Students Struggling with Mathematics - WWC (What Works Clearinghouse)