https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err Respond to the following two questions: 1) How have you structured pair or small group work in your classroom in the past? 2) What have been your success and challenges? Read and respond to a few of your fellow participants’ responses. (If you are one of the first to add to the Padlet wall, remember to check back later after others have had a chance to share their thoughts.) en-us 2021-07-19 23:55:25 UTC 2022-01-28 00:02:04 UTC hello@padlet.com tiffany_irvine https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016673514 I have done small groups in ELA where they would rotate through stations. I have not tried any for math yet. When I did them in ELA it was successful in the fact that the students enjoyed doing the different activities and getting to get up and move around the classroom. I did like working with the small groups at my teacher table. However, the challenge I found in having small groups was it took a lot of prep time, to create each station/activity. Additionally, it was hard to always ensure every group was on task and actually completing work, as I was busy at my teacher table. I was also not sure that they were actually internalizing what they were learning. ]]> 2022-01-27 19:43:12 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016673514 https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016850650 I use small groups in both ELA and math. The groups are typically heterogeneous and are changed periodically. This allows each student to be grouped with students of varying perspectives, talents, and insights. The groups rotate daily and have different tasks (grammar, writing, comprehension, etc.) One day per week we spend reviewing work as a whole class. In some instances, where concepts are more rigorous or complex, I will change groupings so I can adequately differentiate instructions for those needing additional support or enrichment.]]> 2022-01-27 21:51:03 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016850650 https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016883920 I have used small groups in all subjects.  Students will be pair up or grouped by equity cards or self-choice.  Depending on the need, I may select the grouping to differentiate and also challenge students to work with everyone.  Most students prefer to work in groups where they can share ideas and support each other.  
One challenge I see is that the groups will often be controlled or commandeered by one or two students who feel they know the answers. I notice that the quieter students don't have a chance to speak or don't feel like they can. I also feel like I have difficulty cultivating an environment in math that allows exploration of concepts. I have done Number Talks which have worked but they often feel disjointed from the topic. ]]> 2022-01-27 22:23:50 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016883920 https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016911471 Over the years, I have used small groups across the subjects. Often times, through math talks, I will have them turn and talk to their table partners or in their table groups. Additionally, I use the Kagan Structure "Stand Up, Hand Up, Pair Up" to allow for students to discuss subjects and topics with a variety of students and gives each student an opportunity to discuss. I also utilize whiteboards, where students will work out their math problems or thinking in regards to the topic and then will use this in their sharing. ]]> 2022-01-27 22:54:38 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016911471 https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016911772 I have used a wide range of grouping strategies from TPS to Collaborative Study Groups. It really depends on the situation. The goal is to provide opportunities for focused student thinking that is meaningful. Regardless of the grouping strategy, they need to be modeled and used often. In addition, the SMPs and EMTPs should be employed. ]]> 2022-01-27 22:55:02 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016911772 https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016929858 1. Pairs have been structured with using the zone of proximal development. Students not to far in their ability. This allows me to go around and ask questions to assist the pair who made need help. 
    Pairs are also structured with students in random groups. When we are sharing our ideas, I play music and when the music stops students share with their nearest partner.
    The success has been that students have the opportunity to use language and vocabulary. As students share their thoughts or questions students begin to gain confident.
    Small groups are mixed ability groups together. What I have found depending on the type of math different students will show their strength. Each student shares their opinion as to how they approached the problem or how they should approach the problem as a group. Groups then share their approaches and the class can ask questions.
Small group instruction provides opportunities for students to support each other. Some of the problems are making sure that each person has an input. Typically we start with practice in pairs and then practice in groups. This led to more students participating in their group. Groups in preparation for their presentation have to make sure that each person in their group can explain their approach and why. ]]> 2022-01-27 23:17:37 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016929858 https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016964362 I use small group for both ELA and Math. They are usually grouped by level that way i can focus on a certain skill that needs reteaching/or a higher skill for groups who are already mastering that skill]]> 2022-01-28 00:02:04 UTC https://padlet.com/WSVMI/lo9e0no9m0d11err/wish/2016964362