Using Kagan Strategies in the Mathematics Classroom

1. Using Kagan Strategies in the Mathematics Classroom GwenythKieser and Elaine Teyner-Smith

2. Simultaneous Round Table Teams of four • Teacher chooses problems. • All four students respond simultaneously. • When students are done with the problem, they place their pencils on the desk. • Students pass papers clockwise. • Students check answer, initial, and coach if necessary. • Students continue adding to what is already completed. • Repeat.

3. Simultaneous Round Table Tweek: • Have students come to a consensus before rotating papers. (I don’t give the answer) • PowerPoint presentation. I control the pace. • Going over the answers at the end of the activity seems to ensure students are doing the problems correctly • Groups can be asked to put a problem on the board for the other groups to use as an answer key

4. Think – Pair - Share • Split rows so that every two rows of students are paired together. • Every other row is your “A” group • The rest of the rows are group “B” • Give “A” 30 sec. to 1 min. to explain lesson to their “B” partner • Call Time • Give “B” students 30 sec. to add comments

5. Think – Pair - Share • Works well for students to re-state what they just took notes on • Allows them to notice if they are missing any information or have questions

6. Shoulder partners • Students form groups of two. • Each student works independently on a problem from the board. • When finished, students turn to their “shoulder partner”, and state the answer.

7. Shoulder Partners • Works well when going over Guided Practice problems • Student conversations will show misconceptions or understanding

8. Mix – N - Match • Each student receives an index card • Students complete the problem on the card (if required) • Do not let them write on the index cards • Students then walk around the room and find their match • When matches are made, they show the teacher for confirmation • Students should then return to their seats until the activity is completed.

9. Mix – N - Match • Sometimes activities will ask students to find 2 other people • Gets the students up and moving around without taking too much classroom time • Easy to spot students who are struggling with concept • Allows other students to provide assistance

10. Sage and Scribe • Students use their “A” and “B” partners • One group is the “Sage” • They do all the talking • Tell partner what to write and how to solve a problem • They are not allowed to write anything • The other is the “Scribe” • May not speak • Write only (and exactly) what their partner tells them • Complete problem, discuss answer, switch roles

11. Round About • Students form groups of two. • Students go around the room and answer various questions that are posted on the wall. • Once they answer that particular question, they look for the answer on another piece of paper that is posted somewhere around the classroom. • From there, they will find the next question to answer. • This continues until all questions are answered and students should finish at the problem where they started. • Works well as a chapter review, the day before the test.