Math centers provide opportunities for social interaction, differentiated instruction, and choice. They involve grouping students flexibly based on interests or randomly to encourage teamwork. Clear organization is needed, including labeled bins, baskets, and page protectors for activities. Expectations must be modeled and a timer used to keep students on task. Management involves setting clear directions and having anchor activities for early finishers. Parent volunteers can help during centers.

1. Math Centers
By Kelly Schultz

2. Why Should You Use Math
Centers?!?
social interaction
Small group pull out
Choice
Differentiated instruction

3. Differentiation…
• Is needed because, one size does not fit all
• Is not individualized instruction, but adapting the
teaching and learning to meet all needs
• Maximizes growth and individual success
• Is a mix of whole-group, small-group,
partnership, and individual work
• Can be done by adjusting the content, process
or product depending on student needs

4. Ways to Group Students
(recommended 2-4 students in a group)
• Flexible Groups
– For instructional purposes
– By student interest
– Can be changed any time
• Random grouping
– Create new environment
– Encourage teamwork

5. Get Organized!
Clear Bins $1 at
CD/Shoe holders Walmart
Dollar store
baskets

6. Management
• Set expectations
• Model, Model, Model – Give clear directions
• Use a visible timer
• Have “Anchor” activities. Could be stored in
individual student folders (FFF)
• Ask for parent or older student helpers during
math centers
• Expect a little noise (Caterpillar)
• Don’t give up!!!

7. Where do I go?!
Cutter-free classroom
click below!

8. My Centers currently in use:
Page Protectors
Fast Finisher Folder
Clear the board
Clothespins
More/Less
Bunny Ball
Count the dice Fly Facts
Cards
Reading
In out in
Geoboards
Computers
Kaboooom!
Puzzels

9. Fast Finisher Folder:
Student data/FFF
~use a page
protector and insert
different “charts” or
“Worksheets” that
students can work on
during a center time or
if they finish a task
quickly.

10. Blogspot/Pinterest:
Peek at my week:
PINTEREST!!

11. Thanks for visiting!
• Made by: Kelly Schultz
• E-mail: brannankj@gmail.com
• Blog: http://youresosharp.blogspot.com/