Small Group Instruction: Guided math

Suggested Grade Level: PK-12

Guided Math is a framework for small group mathematics instruction. This model offers all students opportunities to develop their mathematical skills at varying levels with the ultimate goal of gaining the ability to function independently in the world of mathematics.

The Guided Math Framework includes the instructional components:

  • Classroom Environment of Numeracy

  • Math Warm-ups

  • Whole Class Instruction

  • Small Group Instruction

  • Math Workshop (Centers)

  • Individual Conferences

  • Ongoing System of Assessment


-Laney Sammons, Guided Math: A Framework for Mathematics Instruction



Planning Resources

Guided Math Components Ideas & Resources

**The underlined items are linked resources.**

Classroom Environment of Numeracy

Environments rich in math opportunities are essential for students to develop understanding of the math.

Assessment

Ongoing assessment provides timely information regarding student needs.

Warm Ups

Warm ups set the tone for the math time. 5-10 minute daily activities in which students can engage in math thinking and math talk.

  • Games

  • Problem Solving

  • Number Talks

  • Data Collection and Analysis

  • Number of the Day

  • Patterns

  • Reflection Questions

  • Current Events

  • Calendar Math

Whole Group Instruction

Presenting to the entire class in about 20 minutes leaving time for small group instruction and workshops.

  • Present mini lesson

  • Involve students in activating strategies

  • Reading aloud mathematics-related literature

  • Setting the stage for Math Workshop

  • Providing practice and review

  • Formal testing or assessments

Small Group Instruction

By using ongoing assessment data students are grouped based on needs. Teaches design lessons to support students to reach learning goals.

  • Determine the big ideas of study to be taught based on the standards & needs of the students

  • Decide what the criteria of success will be in mastering the standards

  • Use information from assessments to form groups based on student needs

  • Prepare differentiated lessons based on the learning needs of the students in each group

Individual Conferencing

Meeting briefly with students to further student's understanding of mathematical concepts.

Workshop (Centers)

What are students doing while the teacher is with a small group? Students learn to work independently.

  • Reviewing concepts that have already been learned

  • Practicing for mastery of math facts

  • Using math games for reinforcement

  • Solving problems

  • Investigating math concepts

  • Writing in math journals

  • Working with technology tools

  • Completing work from small-group instruction

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