Guided Math: Planning for Small Groups

I have tried a million different ways to plan for math groups.  This year we have a parapro in the room which is WONDERFUL, but that means I also have to plan for her. I have started typing my math small groups for two reasons: 1.) I can easily edit the plans for two groups (my group and the para's group), and 2.) I will be able to put my hands on them quickly next year!

I can't remember if I have written about this before, so I will so a brief explanation.  On Mondays we teach an overview of the the week.  Then we give a pretest to determine small groups.  After school we quickly analyze the test results and sort them into three groups (one group for each adult in the the classroom). Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday we spend the time in small groups, the independent work, and then centers.  On Fridays we give a post test and introduce a new game or activity for centers.

Here is how I just started planning for small groups.  I usually do not do too many  worksheet based activities- usually more manipulatives.  However, some of the topics lent themselves well to a worksheet so you will see those in my plans (sorry).

Here are examples of the plans I have used in recent weeks:

Here are my plans for adding and subtracting fractions.

Here are my plans for perimeter- notice that I am using my tic-tac-toe game! :)

Here is a blank copy of the lesson template.  It is available in Word so that you can edit it as needed and save it on your computer, too!

Hopefully this will help you plan and prepare!