Being More Intentional in Your Small Groups

    It's hard to lead small groups! But here are some ways that I have found make small groups easier to lead:

Small Groups Should Be:

• Engaging
• Hands-On
• FUN
• Age-Appropriate
• Scaffolded

Engaging Small Groups Look Like:

• Not distracted by other students
• Makes them curious
• Uses Manipulatives

Hands-On Small Groups Look Like:

• Uses Manipulatives
• Allows kids to touch
• Allows kids to explore
• Allows kids to play

Fun Small Groups Look Like:

• Gets them giggling!
• Gets them excited!
• FUN!
• Gets them Moving*
• *Think Games!*

Age-Appropriate Small Groups Look Like:

• On Grade Level
• Not too challenging that they can’t grasp it
• not too simple that they’re bored

Scaffolded Small Groups Look Like:

• Modeling
• Guided Questioning
• Manipulatives
• Provides option for extra challenge
• provides accommodations

Tips & Tricks:

1. Try to not have a group doing something more “fun” than your small group
• Ex. Having a small group playing individually while you’re conducting your small group
2. Keep your small group(s) short and focused
   • End the small group before they lose interest
   

Recess Matters! The Positive Results of Recess & Physical Activity on Child Development

Recess Matters! Here are some helpful resources showcasing this fact...backed by research! There is a video, and a tri-fold brochure listing all of the details. At the end, I'm including a Canva link to the brochure that you can view and download to share with your students' families!

https://canva.link/hhjfegev15te3zv

Class Sizes: Why It's Important

    Lowering class sizes can have a meaningful impact on student learning, teacher effectiveness, and overall classroom success. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to provide more individualized attention, build stronger relationships with students, better manage classroom behavior, and create a more supportive learning environment - especially in early childhood and elementary classrooms where foundational skills are being developed.
   I have attached a one-page fact sheet with resources that further explain the benefits of lowering class sizes in Oklahoma and why this issue deserves continued attention.
    I am also providing links to other helpful resources:

1. https://www.publicschoolreview.com/blog/class-size-in-public-schools-impact-on-learning
2. https://www.okhouse.gov/posts/news-20260217_4
3. https://www.empoweredsolution.org/post/why-small-class-sizes-make-a-big-difference-for-kids
4. https://www.news9.com/ooo/educate-oklahoma/oklahoma-teachers-survey-challenges-behavior-class-size