Does the idea of giving your students choice in the classroom overwhelm you? Does it feel time-consuming? Or maybe it feels like you cannot possibly give choice without chaos?
Neither one of those two things has to be true. Let’s start by addressing the time issue. We are busy people. We want things that we can implement easily and without much preparation.
That’s where templates can be a lifesaver.
If you have ever thought about using choice boards in your student centered math classroom, but you didn’t know where to start, I have the perfect solution. This warm-up choice board template is a great place to get started. Grab it and an example choice board for free simply by clicking here.
Let’s dive in, friend. I have ten easy ideas for giving students choice in the classroom. These are ideas that can be implemented at any time. So without further ado…
Writing Utensil
Who says we always have to do math in pencil? I actually prefer when students use pens because they cannot erase their thinking when they use a pen. Heck, let’s get really crazy here and use something other than a pen or pencil. You would be surprised how much engagement you would gain by letting your students use a crayon or a marker to solve a math problem.
Odds or Evens
When you give students a set of problems, allow them to choose to work either the odds or evens. Why do all 10 when they can prove their understanding with 5? You will have students asking to do all 10 anyway.
Seating
Maybe not every day (or maybe every day if that’s your style) but every once in a while let students choose their seats. This opens up opportunities for good discussions about taking ownership of your learning which in return leads to a student centered math classroom. You don’t have to do full on flexible seating to give your students choice in their seats.
Color Choice
Print an assignment on different colored pieces of paper and let your students choose what color they would like. Easy + Effective. This choice is why I like to stock up on my favorite astrobrights paper every year.
Flying Solo or Partnering Up
When you are practicing a concept let students decide if they want to practice on their own or with a partner. I like to use this one when we are learning a new concept. Giving students this choice helps create a safe place for them to make mistakes and learn.
Scratch Paper
Do you have whiteboards in your classroom? The choice between using a whiteboard versus scratch paper motivates my students like nothing else. Whiteboards are just more fun. Amazon has some great ones you can add to your classroom.
Paper or Digital
So many resources are coming with both a paper and a digital option these days. The gained in popularity during the days of distance learning. While those days seem to be behind us for the most part, having both options is still HUGE. You don’t have to choose which option to give your students. Instead, let your students make the choice.
Early Finisher Activities
Start with two activities that your students can choose from when they finish an assignment early. One of my favorites to start with is these math vocabulary word searches. Slowly add to your options as the year goes on. This is another great way to help students take ownership of their learning and create a student centered math classroom.
No Particular Order
If students have multiple assignments they need to complete and it doesn’t matter what order they get done in…let them choose the order they want to complete the tasks. Elementary teachers are great with this using the idea of must do may do. Middle School students love this too.
Choice Boards
You know I can’t leave out my favorite option. Choice Boards get even the most reluctant learners to complete an assignment. Click here to grab some templates to save time when you start creating your own.
Read more about Choice in the Classroom
3 Reasons I Love to Use a Choice Board for Math
2 Responses
Thanks for sharing!
Happy to share. 🙂