Book Study: Math Workshop - Grades 6-12

A workshop approach to math instruction can be a real game changer when it comes to engaging, challenging, and supporting every student, whether they need extra support or additional challenges.  

Jennifer Lempp and Skip Tyler provide the “what, why, and when” of math workshop and then outline five steps to implementing this approach with middle and high school students:

  • Understanding Math Workshop

  • Preparing Students for Math Workshop

  • Getting to Know the Components of Math Workshop

  • Choosing a Workshop Structure for What You Need

  • Refining Your Math Workshop

Math Workshop 6-12 shows teachers how to establish student-centred learning opportunities that promote collaboration, classroom discourse, and productive struggle with rich tasks. A classroom video allows you to see the workshop in action, while editable online resources support your teaching with templates and guides.

Step 1: Understanding Math Workshop

The math workshop model shifts the focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centred learning, allowing students to take ownership of their mathematical thinking. This step introduces the philosophy behind the workshop approach and explains why it leads to deeper understanding and increased engagement. Math workshop encourages collaboration, discourse, and productive struggle, helping students develop problem-solving skills in a supportive environment. The authors emphasize the importance of providing rich, meaningful tasks that challenge students while promoting curiosity and critical thinking. Teachers are introduced to key principles that will guide the implementation of math workshops in their classrooms.

Step 2: Preparing Students for Math Workshop

Before diving into the math workshop model, it’s crucial to establish a strong classroom culture. This step focuses on setting routines, building relationships, and fostering a growth mindset in students. Teachers learn strategies for helping students become independent learners who take responsibility for their mathematical thinking. The authors provide guidance on structuring the first few weeks of school to ensure that students understand expectations, procedures, and the collaborative nature of the workshop. This step also emphasizes the importance of helping students feel comfortable with mathematical discourse, which allows them to share their reasoning, ask questions, and challenge their peers' ideas respectfully. By preparing students for this shift in learning, teachers create a foundation for long-term success.

Step 3: Getting to Know the Components of Math Workshop

Math workshop consists of several key components that work together to support student learning. This step explores the various structures teachers can incorporate, such as number sense routines, guided math, learning stations, and independent practice. Each component serves a unique purpose: guided math allows for small-group instruction, learning stations provide opportunities for collaboration, and number sense routines build fluency and flexibility with numbers. The authors also emphasize the importance of balancing direct instruction with student-led exploration. Teachers are given concrete strategies for planning lessons that include multiple components of the math workshop model, ensuring that all students receive the support they need while engaging in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.

Step 4: Choosing a Workshop Structure for What You Need

Since no two classrooms are alike, this step helps teachers determine the best structure for their specific students, curriculum, and learning objectives. The authors present multiple models for math workshops, ranging from flexible grouping structures to station rotations and whole-group discussions. Teachers are encouraged to select a structure that aligns with their instructional goals while considering student needs. Differentiation plays a key role in this step, as educators learn how to tailor activities for different skill levels, ensuring that all students are challenged appropriately. Additionally, this step provides tips for time management, lesson planning, and handling logistical challenges that may arise when implementing a math workshop structure.

Step 5: Refining Your Math Workshop

Effective teaching requires continuous reflection and refinement, and this step focuses on evaluating and improving the math workshop model over time. Teachers are encouraged to analyze student progress, gather feedback, and make adjustments based on what works well and needs improvement. The authors address common challenges, such as managing student behaviour, balancing direct instruction with independent learning, and ensuring all students remain engaged. They also provide strategies for sustaining a math workshop model year after year, making it an integral part of classroom instruction rather than just an experiment. By continuously refining their approach, educators can create a math learning environment that remains effective, dynamic, and responsive to student needs.

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