How do you solve huge gap in students' background??
Hi all,
It is nice to be here with you where I can get valuable and practical tips for teaching. Here is my problem:
What can you do if half of your class in Math is at the higher level (example at calculus level) and the other half cannot add? The content of the course is in between the aformentioned levels (pre college algebra).
Thanks
I agree completely with the peer to peer tutoring. This will also start the teamwork process and help them feel more invested in their own education. Just keep in mind that lecture and material cannot be held up so that one or two who don't understand can try to "get it". This is where tutoring is essential.
Hi Mark,
Great ideas. I like to do pretest based on course objectives that will be covered to determine where each student is. I like to do group projects, and I utilize this to make sure to put a strong student in each group.
Patricia
Hi Andrea,
I have had great success utilizing this practice. I oversee everything, but students really seem to get into the peer-to-peer learning.
Patricia
I agree with Mark and Patricia regarding peer tutors. I feel that letting the students help each other learn often creates a more comfortable learning environment - peer to peer instead of instructor to student. It may also help make both the peer tutor and the student being tutored feel more invested in the course by giving them a responsibility to learn on their own, outside of the classroom environment.
Hi Mark,
I use this practice. I always make sure I have at least one strong academic student in each group. This is helpful to all.
Patricia
Hi Christy,
I make myself available before school and after school to provide additional help for those in need.
Patricia
Hi Jennifer,
Peer tututors are great as well. Peer tutors are those who excel based on academics and are willing to help others.
Patricia
I like your idea Jennifer and to add you could partner more experienced students in the course with less experienced students. This may encourage the less experienced student to open up to one of their peers in the class instead of feeling intimidated by the instructor who is viewed as the expert and the authority figure.
Do an assessment test that will cover course material. This will allow students to see where they stand. Have a plan for those that scored sub par. Utilize student services to help with tutoring etc.
You could break the class up into groups of different levels, so that they can help each other as well as rotate these groups periodically.
You could also suggest having a volunteer that likes to take initiative and consider tutoring once a week for anyone that may be interested. . .create library group for extra points/credit.
Provide extra work for those who are interested.
I teach English, which I realize is a very different environment from Math; however, the idea is the same. Some will be ready to move on while others may be confused and need extra help. I generally do exercises with the class and then allow them to work in groups. I provide a good amount of class time for students to request one-on-one time with me. I can usually figure out through that experience who really needs help or outside tutoring. I suggest students who have finished their exercises to work quietly or work ahead.
