Motivating and engaging a 6th grader can be difficult. By creating a student-centered classroom with instruction through small group mini-lessons, students will receive the individualized lessons they need. Allowing choices in schedule, location, modality, and task will appeal to adolescents.
My students are northern Illinois sixth graders who attend public school.
They are from an area of moderate poverty. Just like any school, the range of ability in the classroom is a challenge in all subjects. My students love working in groups, using technology, and having some freedom and choice in their learning. They are more focused and learn more quickly when taught in small groups using daily mini-lessons.
My Project
The U-shaped teaching table will be used constantly to pull students for mini-lessons and interventions. By using flexible grouping (using pre-tests, test scores, and formative assessments to determine groups) students will get lessons that are the appropriate level, length, and content for them. Students might be using hands-on math manipulatives, completing a science lab with a teacher's guidance, or conferencing with a teacher about their reading or writing at this table.
The students will be given choices as to where they want to work. The jumbo bean bag chairs will be an option for students (in the middle of the room). This would be an area where students can work independently or in a small group. They might be reading, using a Chromebook, or having a group discussion in this area. Students would also have the choice of working at a table or desk or on the floor if they prefer.
With instruction in small group at the table (rather than whole class), I will be better able to assess a student's readiness for lessons.
Each student will get more individualized lessons and specific interventions, which will help greatly.
The students will enjoy the flexibility of not having a set schedule. They will feel that they have some control over their learning, because they will get to choose what they are working on at what time and where (the bean bag chairs will be a favorite!)
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Batson and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.