Easy Classroom Updates for 2020

Tired of using the same discussion routines and groupings? Try one of these four fresh takes! Each grouping supports different types of student engagement.

• Traverse: Stand in two parallel lines opposite a partner. Change partners by moving one person down to the other end of the line. Great for a quick review of skills.
• Circle: Groups of 6 or more face each other in a circle. Students step inside the circle one at a time to speak to the whole group. Great for summarizing learning after a task.
• Trios: Talk to a partner while a third person listens in and summarizes or critiques the discussion. Good for peer feedback on writing or thinking.
• Onion: Form an inner circle and an outer circle. Those in the inner circle stand back to back, facing a partner in the outer circle. Speak to a new partner by rotating the inner or outer circle. Good for sharing answers and checking student work.

(Learn more about why discussion is important in the math classroom in this post from math coach Melinda Villalovos.)

In escape-room games, players enter a room with several planted clues and tasks. They work together to solve each puzzle as quickly as they can to unlock the door and “escape.” Create the same experience with your students through “digital escape rooms,” using Google Forms! This is a great activity for reviewing a skill or concept.

1. First, select a concept to focus on. Create several questions for students to complete. 
2. Next, arrange the answers to create a “code.” The code can be a message or a numerical sequence. Be creative! Use Google Forms to create a simple page for students to enter the “code” once they have answered each question.
3. Then, print out the questions and place them around the room. Put students into appropriate groups or pairs and give them an allotted amount of time to complete each question.
4. Finally, have students use the answers to crack the “code” and enter it into the Google Form to “unlock” the digital escape room. You can provide a reward for teams who complete the challenge in time.