Grouping

All students need to be grouped in a Maths group for Guided Mathematics. These groupings are usually ability-based but can also be mixed-ability based.

Ability groups allow students to work on problems that tightly match the next progression in their learning trajectory. The aim of a group lesson may be the learning of a new type of strategy or the learning of key knowledge that is the foundation for the development of strategies. For example, learning the meaning of fraction symbols (knowledge) is the foundation for using a fraction as an operator (strategy). Ability groups provide intense situations for dialogue and new learning, increasing students’ potential for success. Using ability groups successfully depends on the setting up of good routines and habits for independent work and therefore increases the demands on preparation time. Exclusive use of ability groups can limit students’ expectations of themselves.

Mixed-ability groups are grouped on a social basis that allows compatible students to work together. Provide open problem solving rather than practice tasks. This type of grouping sustains student effort longer than other groupings and allows for students of differing abilities to learn from one another. It has the potential to increase students’ expectations and contribute to the development of key competencies, such as relating to others, self management, and belonging.

Information about grouping:

• The grouping of students needs to be kept flexible
• Students are usually grouped on the basis of their strategy stage
• 4-6 students in each group
• 3-5 groups (more than 5 becomes very difficult to manage well)
• Students need to be monitored by means of observation and assessments.
• Students should be grouped using assessment data (formal and informal) and a teacher's growing knowledge of their students.