The key when planning your 2nd grade math schedule is to keep procedures and time consistent from day to day. This way students know what to expect whether you're there or a sub is there in your place. Also, if the flow is predictable, kids can spend their energy on learning math concepts instead of new routines.
In this post, we'll walk through the components of a sample 2nd grade math block, given a 60-minute block of time. If you have more than 60 minutes, lucky you! If you have less, you may decide to shorten certain components or break the block apart so you can sprinkle the math routines throughout the day.
Let's take a closer look at what an effective 2nd grade math schedule can look like.
The following is just one way to schedule your math block.
Math warm ups are a great way to get students thinking about math. Warm-ups come in a variety of different packages such as number talks, partner problems, math fact flashcards, quick games, etc. The key is to focus on something that is math-related that gets everyone in a math-ready mindset.
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Next up is the whole group lesson. Start with the essential question or learning target. Then, hook students in with a song, anchor chart, short math video clip, or story. Take a look at our blog post library of math videos to teach all the 2nd grade skills!
From there, you are teaching and demonstrating the new math skill for the day. The smartboard and document camera come in handy during this time! One idea for keeping your students engaged is to give them markerboards so they can go through problems with you.
Whole group lessons taught on the rug work well so kids are close by when you notice multiple errors and corrections need to be demonstrated. Also, you can strategically place them with ideal partner combinations and listen in when it's turn and talk time!
After the whole group lesson, send students to their desks or other workplaces around the classroom for independent practice. This can be as simple as a worksheet from the math curriculum or an interactive math notebook activity.
While students are working independently, teachers can move around the room to work with small groups or individuals who would benefit from extra attention.
Math centers are the next part of the math block. This is often kids' favorite part of the day because they get to be creative and hands-on with their learning!
If you're looking for more info on getting your centers up and running, check out these posts:
2nd Grade Schedule (you are here)
The last 10 minutes of the 2nd grade math schedule is clean up and reflection. This is a time for students to get the room put back together, organize their math folder, and finish a quick journal entry on how their center time activity went for them. Another reflection activity that also serves as a formative assessment is to have students complete math exit tickets!
