Ms. Shuckhart's Super Stars!: Math Workshop

What is Math Workshop?

Math Workshop is a method of delivering math instruction. It starts with a directed lesson to give students key math concepts. This is also the time that the math challenge is explained before students go back to their seats. Once they get back to their seats, they will work in small groups or sometimes independently to complete the challenge. Students are encouraged to use math their math toolboxes and manipulatives when needed. I serve as a facilitator at this point, monitoring and conferring with students. The last few minutes of the workshop is sharing what we found out, and how we completed the challenge. There are many ways to solve the same problem and we encourage students to share their way!

How Much Homework will my child have?
Your child will typically have math homework Monday-Thursday. I will assign no more than 10 practice problems per night. Also, remember any homework given is an extension of work from our classroom, I will NEVER assign a homework topic that the students are unfamiliar with, but if you notice your child is having trouble completing his or her homework, please feel free to email me or send me a short note that students are struggling with it.

Math Workshop Model

The teacher provides whole class direct and explicit instruction in one of the following ways:

conduct a shared reading demonstrating a reading strategy
read and think aloud for a specific purpose
teach a key concept
demonstrate a writing strategy
direct students in a hands-activity Teacher outlines the work to be done including

the expectations as to how to apply the content learned in the mini- lesson to the work
the expectation of completed work

Independent Work Time (30-40 minutes)
Students work independently, in pairs, or small groups.
The teacher circulates for 2 or 3 minutes to ensure all students are on task, and then

confers with individuals for a few minutes, taking anecdotal notes
work with a small group in direct instruction

Share Session (5 minutes)
The teacher reconvenes class to

focus on the work of one or two students that use what was taught in
the mini-lesson
recap key learning of the day (1 minute)
check for understanding (with short reflective writing or exit slips)
give homework assignment