Gone are the days of lengthy teacher-led math lessons, with a bit of independent practice at the end! Applying a similar approach that you may already use in reading, a math workshop model gives students a chance to really work with the math that they’re learning.
Afraid to get started with math workshop because you’re unsure of what it might look like in your classroom? Keep reading to learn about the basics and get an easy start!
What is Math Workshop?
Math workshop combines instruction from a teacher, as well as small group and independent activities to help students practice math. It follows a set of steps each day, which allows students to review, learn, and practice all in the same math block!
The key parts of my math workshop include:
- Spiral Review: Not all teachers begin with a spiral review but, as a teacher in a tested grade, finding a time to fit it in is important to me. I usually give students one question to solve independently and then we go over it together.
- Warmup: Warmups can include activating prior knowledge students may need or giving students a chance to explore the day’s new concept and come up with their own ideas.
- Mini-Lesson: This is when direct instruction happens, but it is short and sweet. Keep it to about 15-20 minutes.
- Small Groups/Math Centers: This should take up at least half or the majority of your math block time. Work with small groups of students to practice what was learned in the mini lesson, while other students rotate through centers.
- Closure: This can be a short discussion about the day’s learning, or can include a very short formative assessment, such as an exit ticket.
Benefits of the Workshop Model
Students thrive in a math workshop model because it keeps them engaged! They are able to move through activities instead of sitting in their chairs listening the whole time, so they stay focused and learn more.
Since students are given opportunities to practice math in multiple ways during math workshop, they also increase their math confidence. If a student is struggling with a concept after the mini lesson, they are able to continue practicing with their teacher in a small group!
Have you already tried using the workshop approach in your math classroom and love it? Let me know what you love about it by leaving a comment below!
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