Group Dynamics

My observation for the last two weeks has been interesting with the way the classroom divides itself.  After assigning Khan Academy homework with the content delivered at night, the students come in the classroom prepared to start an assignment on the concept.  There ends up being different levels of groups learning daily without any type of direction on my part.

The students begin with an assignment with the answers posted in the room.  They complete this at their own pace and may work with a partner if needed.  Most students do not have much trouble moving through the first assignment on their own and checking their work.  I am always available for any trouble spots they may encounter.  Notes may be used or they may look back at videos that would be helpful to them successfully completing their work.  

After the first stage, students move in groups of 3 or 4 as they finish.  The problems are posted on the board or from their textbook.  These problems apply the concept they learned about in their homework.  In the group setting, I encourage interaction between the students to try and discuss each problem.  Students that complete this task move on to enrichment problems that add another level of challenge.

The division in the classroom happens naturally.  By the end of the period there are 3 different levels of learning happening simultaneously.  Everyone is engaged but not always at the same level.  

Another point is that the groups are never the same.  The groups are formed based on when a student finishes the first assignment.   Some days one student might require more practice with the first assignment.  The dynamics of the groups are different each day which keeps the classroom interesting!