What are small groups?
Students learn in all kinds of ways. Some students learn more through whole group discussion, while others might benefit from "small groups." The advantage of small group work, is that it promotes maximum participation from ALL students. In a small group situations, ideally all students are involved in both "thinking and doing." Small group work also promotes cooperative skills, such as listening and communication skills, problem solving and sharing of tasks.
In our classroom, we are participating in small groups all day.
During our Writer's Workshop, the students are working not only at their seats, but many times sharing their writing with friends at their table. This promotes a sense of community and gives students confidence. It also allows students to learn from their peers.
We also use small groups during our Reading time. For example, while I am working with several students in a guided reading area, other students are busy at work, in their small groups, focusing on reading, writing, or phonics skills.
Our small group instruction doesn't stop there! We continue to work in small groups in the afternoon during Math, where we are involved with playing math games and using manipulatives to help each other grow as learners.
We also will participate in learning centers throughout the day. The children will work cooperatively in areas such as Dramatic play, Science, Discovery, and more!
Overall, small groups is an amazing way for students to connect with other, work together, and use their own personal skills to achieve a mini task. This is my students' favorite time of the day!
Reading Centers:
Teacher Table/Guided Reading
Writing
Word Work
Technology- ABC Mouse
Library
Discovery Centers:
Kitchen/Dramatic Play
Science
Fine Motor
Blocks
Art
Math Centers:
Playdough
Teacher Table
Technology- ABC Mouse
Number Writing Center
Table Top/Engineering