Introduction

Guided MathematicsGuided mathematics is an instructional approach in which theteacher models and guides students through a mathematical skill orconcept. The guidance provided by the teacher in guided mathematicsgives students the opportunity to observe an approach to solving aproblem or investigating a concept, to hear appropriate mathematicallanguage, to see the teacher engaged in mathematical activity, and toparticipate in an activity as the teacher guides them through the concept.The success of guided mathematics is highly dependent on student/teacherinteraction; the teacher engages students by asking themquestions and by encouraging them to ask their own questions, toshare ideas, and to offer suggestions.Guided mathematics can be used to:Guided mathematicscan be used to:• reinforce a specific skill orconcept;• introduce the new skills orconcepts required to solvea problem;• introduce a specific process(e.g., a new problem-solvingstrategy; a particular algorithmfor students to use);• teach specific conventions,such as fraction and decimalnotation;• model mathematicallanguage, mathematicalthinking, and problem solving.• reinforce a specific skill or concept;• introduce the new skills or concepts required to solve a problem;• introduce a specific process (e.g., a new problem-solving strategy; a particularalgorithm for students to use);• teach specific conventions, such as fraction and decimal notation;• model mathematical language, mathematical thinking, and problem solving.In guided mathematics, lessons are short, have clear goals, and target a specific conceptor skill. Although the teacher may wish to focus on a particular concept or skill,instruction is flexible enough to capitalize on students’ own ideas, strategies, or questions.Guided mathematics is not the primary focus of a mathematics program or lesson.It can be used at various times and for various purposes.FORMS OF GUIDED MATHEMATICSGuided mathematics can involve the entire class, or it can occur when students areworking on a problem in groups and several students have the same question. Theteacher can work with a small group, and at times with individual students. Reflection,discussion, and sharing, which may occur throughout the lesson as well as at the end,are vital components that help clarify or reinforce key mathematical ideas.The students’ activities during guided mathematics may include:• responding to questions that the teachers asks to guide them through a skillor concept ;• observing the teacher engaged in mathematical activity;• observing and reflecting on strategies demonstrated by the teacher;Instructional Approaches 69