Math

Math Workshop

The Math Workshop model combines direct instruction with hands-on and student-centered learning opportunities. Math typically begins with a Problem of the Day which reinforces our Real World Word Problem Strategies and transitions us from recess into Math. We only spend about 10 minutes on these problems and it is encouraged that students use their time efficiently to show their work when choosing a strategy to work out the problem. We then do a brief Number Talk where a few random students are chosen to EXPLAIN their solving of the Problem of the Day. It is very important that they can SOLVE the problems but also walk individuals through their thinking. From the beginning of our workshop students are thinking about and engaging with math right away.

Next, we gather on the carpet for our Focus Lesson, or math mini lesson, before breaking off into Small Groups to rotate through meaningful math centers. One of the stations is the teacher table where your child will meet with me for small group, leveled guided math instruction. It is here that I will be able to teach concepts in ways that make sense to your child, assess understanding of math concepts, model with manipulative, and ensure your child is experiencing math ah-ha moments on a daily basis. It is truly amazing to see the growth that comes from consistent, targeted small group learning! Another station is on the computer where students use a website called Khan Academy where they receive a double dose of the daily lesson to reinforce the instruction. Other stations focus on Math Fluency and other Math concepts.

After students have completed math rotations, we will meet again on the carpet for a whole group debrief of the day's learning. This is your child's time to share something they noticed or learned, teach a new strategy to the class, or reflect on math. It is often here that we talk about and set new personalized math goals and hone our growth mindsets. Students will come to love our math workshop wrap-up just as much as the math centers themselves!

The goal of the Math Workshop model is to promote differentiation, engagement, and collaborative learning. Each Friday your child will choose on piece of work, notes, exit ticket, problem of the day, etc and add it to their Class Dojo Portfolio and explain how it connects the overall concept we have been learning through out the week. Be sure to check out their Portfolio additions each week!