Substitute Teaching Tip: How to implement small group instruction in the classroom.

Working in groups allows students to learn skills such as collaboration and problem-solving. As a substitute teacher, you can implement small group instruction in the classroom. Let’s explore the value of small group instruction and best practices.

Quick tips to implement small group instruction:

• Review lesson plan
• Set expectations
• Balance the group dynamics
• Encourage collaboration
• Monitor progress

The value of working in small groups.

From projects to test prep, group work provides a productive space for students to dive deep into a topic together. Along with the joys of collaborating with others, working in groups fosters a productive classroom atmosphere for students to flourish.

Learn to collaborate.

We’ve all heard the saying, “Two heads are better than one.” Teamwork is essential for academic success as well as for long-term career and personal development.

• Strengthens communication skills as students to work toward a shared goal.
• Allows ease of brainstorming and creativity.
• Encourages sharing of and respect for different perspectives.

As a result of collaboration, students develop a better grasp of complex material and find unique approaches to challenges than when working alone—or even as an entire class.

Alleviate nervousness.

Groups encourage engagement, especially for students who may feel shy or hesitant to speak in front of the whole class.

Some students may feel uncomfortable voicing their confusion, particularly if most classmates seem to understand the lesson plans. Small groups create a low-pressure situation where students feel comfortable opening up, sharing their ideas, and receiving feedback.

With students separated into groups, you can prioritize those who need extra help. You can directly support those who need it during group work while other groups work independently.

Best practices for implementing small groups in the classroom.

As a substitute teacher, implementing small group lessons requires you to both guide the students and adapt to what happens. Many of the approaches you’d use for solo work, including personalized attention, time management, and positive reinforcement, still apply to small group instruction.

Review the lesson plans.

Like any lesson, understand the activity’s objectives. What is the purpose of group work for this lesson? What should the students accomplish by the end of class? Understanding the rationale behind using small groups will help you ensure that students get all the benefits of small group work.

If the lesson plan doesn’t require small groups, you probably don’t want to start them on your own. Group work should serve a specific purpose. Unplanned group activities might disrupt the intended learning process. Instead, stick to the provided structure to ensure consistency and keep students focused.

Set clear expectations.

Before students split into groups, they should thoroughly understand the lesson and what you expect. Clearly explain the activity, timeframe, and desired outcomes. If the lesson plan has multiple phases, writing instructions on the board can help keep students on track.

Now is a good time to re-establish norms. Students are typically aware of behavioral expectations. Still, a friendly reminder to use indoor voices, respect each other’s contributions, and stay on task can go a long way.

You may want to assign roles depending on the lesson’s purpose. Maybe students are working on a debate activity. Delegating responsibilities, like the speaker, timekeeper, note-taker, and fact-checker, can provide structure and accountability within each group.

Assign the small groups.

Depending on the teacher’s plan, groups may already have been assigned. If so, stick to those. If you’re left in charge of assigning the groups, here are three options:

1. If you know the students, create balanced groups with various personalities and skill levels.
2. Use a randomized approach, like drawing cards, counting off, or birthday months.
3. Let students pick their own groups. This method can lead tochallenges, but it could be a good option if you’re familiar with the students.

Encourage collaboration.

Group work should promote a positive atmosphere for students to share ideas and listen to others. Of course, times when students disagree with each other will arise. Groups allow students to practice conflict management and resolve minor disputes independently.

Monitor progress.

When students work in groups, there can be a greater tendency to get distracted and disorganized. By walking around the classroom and monitoring student progress, you’ll help students stay on-task and make classroom management easier.

Classroom management challenges.

Making simple adjustments can lead to improved productivity. For example, student skills may be unbalanced, or some groups could be too large. Use your judgment to balance group dynamics and make adjustments so everyone can actively participate.

Additionally, ensuring each group has the necessary supplies can prevent interruptions. You can avoid students getting up or walking around the classroom by preparing materials in advance and passing them out before the activity begins. This keeps the lesson flowing and helps students stay engaged.

Return class to normal configuration.

As the class is nearing an end, be sure to get things back in order. You may have needed to rearrange desks and chairs to accommodate group work. Be sure to save enough time for students to return the classroom to its original layout. With the classroom properly organized, you’ll ensure a smooth transition to the next lesson.

Grow as a substitute teacher with Kelly Education.

Want to continue learning about lesson plans and other instructional strategies? We’ve got a library of substitute teacher articles, be sure to check out these:

• Top lesson plans for substitute teachers in middle school and high school.
• Substitute teacher tips: 3 steps to improve student engagement during a lesson
• Sub plans and tips for substitute teachers in 9 elective and core subjects

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