Getting it done

 

Plan the Work and Work the Plan. This one liner is the best advice to be successful which means higher achievement and safe and engaging classrooms.

Last week Bri and I spent two days looking at implementation os math in two buildings. Here are a few highlights that we consistently saw and correlated to the highest achievement or growth on MAP tests. 

1. Clarity in learning intention and success criteria during all points of the workshop.  This was most obvious at Bloomer and was noted by those observing.  It was foundational in every classroom. The precision of language helped students learn and lesson move efficiently.
2. They read the lesson and implemented it.  The designers of the math tool specifically designed the lesson to be quick paced.  Each lesson has a numbered list to implement.  The point is to move through each quickly, especially if it is during whole group.  Pacing is key.  Don't get bogged down in each item.  You won't fit everything in during your math workshop.
3. Know the standard and use the vocabulary.  Again, this has been provided for you so if you aren't as comfortable with the math you can use the cards provided.  Consistently using academic vocabulary sets high expectations and allows kids knowledge and access to the standard.
4. Every Workout Every Day.  When thinking about number corner please read through the suggested routines needed each day.  Be efficient and make sure you use the 20 minutes for number corner sufficiently.
5. Implement workplaces every day.  These are designed with a sprained approach and are meant to reinforce the learning of the module.  Differentiation and choice was a hallmark in the most successful classrooms.  Fortunately for you the District has hired a consultant who has put together choice boards, assessment materials and other lesson materials found in the box you receive each month.  You don't have to do to the extra time of 'making' everything.  It's been done for you.
6. Talk Moves and Math Journals were used throughout the lessons.  They lift engagement and allow kids to learn and do with the teacher during whole group lessons.  

    Overall, the consensus around the work at Bloomer was that there was clarity and consistent use of learning intentions and success criteria in every classroom. Katie and Carol used it during work places(Katie) and had them posted (Carol).  Nearly every classroom has the learning intention posted.  I'd say our visitors learned a lot from you about specificity in success criteria and how that guides learning.  Additionally, they noticed how well-behaved and engaged our students are.  They said we are a well-oiled machine which impressed them.  There wasn't one classroom where kids were not glued to the learning.  Finally, they were blown away how quickly we are improving with math implementation.  The most obvious point was implementation of workplaces.  In the fall it was an area of improvement and this time a highlight.  

Sure we have further to go but your work to implement properly and efficiently.  The result?  We grew by 5% from fall to winter.  

Let's keep it up!  You are getting it done.