Ms. VanHorn?s teaching was observed by her principal while teaching reading to her second graders. The principal remarked in her feedback that Ms. VanHorn used too much large group instruction during her reading period and needs to provide more differentiated instruction for students in small groups. Ms. VanHorn is frustrated because she does not have a teacher aide and does not understand how

Question

she can provide small group instruction while keeping the other students occupied. What are some ways that Ms. VanHorn can provide effective small group instruction? Provide two examples.

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Ms. VanHorn needs to arrange a certain time of day to provide small group instruction for her students of different ability levels. While she is working with students in a small group, the other students can participate in independent learning, cooperative learning, or peer tutoring. For example, Ms. VanHorn can divide her class into three ability levels based upon students' progress monitoring scores. While she is working with one group, one group can be doing independent seatwork while another group listens to books on tape. These groups can rotate (e.g., every 20 minutes) so that she sees each student within a small group. Alternatively, students can engage in a peer tutoring activity such as reading aloud. Cooperative groups can also work together during this time (e.g., answering comprehension questions). Ms. VanHorn needs to be very precise and clear about student expectations during small group instruction so that she is not interrupted by student questions during her small group instruction. When a routine is established, the students can improve their ability to work independently.