Every math block needs some independent time. Let's look at some options for independent work.
Why Independent Math Work?
Students need to learn to work on their own without relying on the teacher. This allows them time to have productive struggle, to hone their skills, and to spiral back to review skills.
Independent Math Station
For my independent math station, I have done several different things. I will explain all of those.
First, students often need some independent time to finish their math assignment. It seems that the higher the grade, the more time they need. I like to give them their assignment to finish straight after class with me. They rotate back to their seats to work on the rest alone. Sometimes I will have them work with a partner to check their work, especially if it is a difficult skill.
Another activity I use for independent time is a spiral review. I purchased some year-long spiral reviews for my students. These are weekly reviews that have a section for each day with just a sprinkling of different problems from many different skill areas. A review like this tends to take just 10-15 minutes. This is a great way for students to constantly cycle back to pervious learning and keep if fresh and engrain it in their minds.
One final activity I like to throw in is a color by skill sheet. This is similar to a color by number only it goes right along with the skills we have been working on. I have found a ton of these on TPT for free and printed a master copy of each, placing them in a page protector inside a binder. They are easy and ready for me to reach for as needed. These give my students a little different activity with an art twist and are out of the norm, so they really seem to enjoy them so far.
Independent work is an absolute necessity within my classroom structure. This skill set helps the students get ready for higher grades and even more independent work.
If you are looking for some color by skills for multiplication, I've got you covered. Click here to find the link to my spy academy set.
