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October 12, 2012

Math Choices


After 2 weeks of trying MATH rotations, I have come to the conclusion that it just isn't meant to be with this special group of kiddos.  Life works better and more smoothly when we do things together as a group.  I found it was too stressful for me to try to manage the kids in the other 2 groups - since at this point in time they have a mentality that if I'm not specifically speaking to them that somehow my ears and eyes aren't working.  They really were engaged in their work, but the noise level of being engaged and feeling the need to share their excitement with others really didn't mesh with allowing my quiet group to focus.  I found that I loved using the games.  I just know that there are other ways that those games can still be out for the week so they can play them at different times and each have a turn.

So how have I changed it to make me happy?

We are doing the lesson full class (like before).

We then do guided practice together (like before).

They all do their classwork, and I am making sure to get around to the 
kids that I know are having a hard time (instead of doing groups.)

As the kids finish their classwork they leave it on their desks and get to go play the review games, do a skill on ixl, and practice their math facts through those specific activities.

They are in charge of making sure they try all the activities 
throughout the week - 
it's a checklist similar to the Daily 5 choices only for math.
The best part for me is that I regained my sanity.  

I'm glad that I tried it, I'm just glad that I feel comfortable enough with myself as a teacher to evaluate that it's not working the way that I envisioned it to be.

No more headaches!  
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8 comments:

  1. I know what you mean! Sometimes we just need to do what's best for our own group of students-and our sanity. I need to stop comparing myself to other teachers on my grade level team, or my class to the other classes. Thank you. I needed to hear this!

    Young Daze in 5th Grade

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    Replies
    1. Thank you for the encouragement. I still love doing the activities, I just wish that things were different this year. This is the hardest year I've ever had to teach in all my 13 years... :( Okay, I'm stopping the pity party...

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  2. Every teacher is different and finding what works for you is the key! Glad you found what works for you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I love your ideas and I only wish that it really would work for this class.

      Delete
  3. What works with one group of kids does not work with next group. The important thing is that you as a teacher reflect and adapt to the needs of your students. So good for you adjusting as needed.
    ~April Walker
    The Idea Backpack

    ReplyDelete
  4. This looks like an give away! I linked up with 2nd Grade Pad and her fun You've Been Boo'ed linky. I have
    Boo'ed you because you inspire me to be a better teacher and blogger! Let me know what item from my TpT store that I can send you as a treat!
    http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Fancy-Free-In-Fourth

    Come and check out my post!
    Layla
    Fancy Free in Fourth

    ReplyDelete

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