Our Road to Personalized Learning in Math

We are gearing up to launch personalized learning in our classroom with math as our first focus.  We have been preparing and practicing the components of what a day in math will look like once everyone is working at the lesson and pace they need.  To do this we have all been working on the same lesson each day.  Once we "launch" personalized math next unit, students may be working on different lessons entirely from the rest of their classmates, or they may be working at the same speed as multiple students in our class.  Ultimately the learning path they take will be formed around the pace they learn best.  For some that may mean they are able to rapidly master material independently, for others it may mean they work well in a partnership or small group, and for some guided instruction by a teacher may be the best option.  As we dive into this new endeavor, we will be able to better articulate the best way for us to learn.

Take a look at the steps we are taking!

Step 1: Lessons are given over video by Mrs. Becker.  Students understand which materials they will need for the lesson, and can choose the location at which they want to learn at for the day.  If they are on a similar lessons, peers can choose to work in partnerships or groups to complete tasks.

Step 2:  Students use manipulatives, white boards, or their math journals to actively participate in the video lesson targeting a specific learning goal.  They are asked to pause the video multiple times to work through questions.  At any time a student can find a teacher for clarification on a video topic.

Step 3: Students demonstrate their understanding of the learning through their math journals, and understand where check points are to check with a teacher to make sure they are understanding the learning goal and objectives.

Step 4: Mrs. Becker circulates to check in on students and answers questions and gives mini tutorials as the need arises.  She pulls small groups of students to work on specific instruction or works one on one with students to fine tune skills.

Step 5  (to come):  Students will follow a learning plan to determine the course at which they complete lessons.  This will be determined by pre tests (to determine learning gaps and needs) as well as previous completion of activities and lessons.

Step 6 (to come):  Students will be able to work through their paths at a pace which allows them to gain understanding of the learning targets, they will also have the opportunity to participate in math projects and challenges which will target real world problem solving skills as well.