How might teaching phonics in a small group format increase student enjoyment of the subject in a 2nd grade classroom?

Cassidy Statz


Seminar Title


How might teaching phonics in a small group format increase student enjoyment of the subject in a 2nd grade classroom?


Concept/Strategy

Focus of the Research


Small Group vs Whole Group Instruction, Engagement, Differentiation, Independence, Phonological Awareness


Grade Level

Research Was Applied


2nd Grade


Relevant Grade Level

Connections


Elementary


Discipline

Where Research Was Applied


Language Arts


Additional Discipline Areas

I see Application to


Mathematics


Invitation/Commercial


"I'm bored!" "This is easy!" "I don't get it!" These are a few comments that, if you've been teaching for a few years, you've more than likely heard at least once or twice in your career. An endless tug-of-war, finding engaging instruction for your class that is both challenging but not overwhelming for a group of 20-30 different learning styles and backgrounds. This problem took me into a deep dive to research the benefits of small group vs. whole group learning. While my research took place with 2nd graders, the concepts explored are prevalent in kindergarten through high school classrooms. Does small group learning have an impact on student engagement? Does it make differentiation inherently simpler? It must present opportunities to build student independence, right? Finally, and more specifically, does it allow for more effective teaching of phonological awareness or any subject area? These questions have led to exciting new insight through my research and I can't wait to share it with you! These days it seems like every teacher has their own unique spin on small group instruction so join me to discuss, discover, and share new and innovative strategies for small group instruction!