Guided math groups can be successful in any classroom if you have strong classroom management and organization.
I spend the first two weeks of school “training” my students on how to do guided math. (You can do this anytime you are ready to start your groups–not just the beginning of the school year.)
Before launching guided math, ask yourself,
- Do I have clear expectations in my classroom?
- Do I have set rotations or flexible rotations? (I recommend flexible rotations…You can learn more about how I do that in this blog post.)
- What do I want my students working on during math groups?
- How much technology is available to me?
- How many students can I work with at a time?
I created this ten day launch plan to help other teachers who are ready to start Guided Math Groups. It gives a brief synopsis of what to teach your students each day. It is written to be used during the first two weeks of school, but it can be used whenever you are ready to launch guided math. So, if you are jumping on the guided math train a little later in the year, just modify this.
It is truly important to spend the whole two weeks preparing your students for guided math. Invest the time now, so you will not be interrupted with problems later. It is also important to revisit these expectations later in the year. A great time to do it is upon returning from winter break.
Click the image above to get the FREE ten-day launch plan.
For resources to use during your math block check out, 1st Grade Guided Math, 2nd Grade Guided Math, 3rd Grade Guided Math, 4th Grade Guided Math, and 5th Grade Guided Math!
Learn how I teach Guided Math!

Learn why you need to begin with the end in mind!

Hello!! I currently teach fourth grade and my teammate and I LOVE your guided math bundle. I am being moved to first next year, and saw hat your packs only went down to second and was so bummed! Any chance you are developing a first grade version?
Hey Emily! Just letting you know that 1st Grade is now available! The link is in this blog post now!
I am looking for suggestions to help my fellow teachers and myself implement guided math. I love the two week plan to set up, however we need an alternative. We teach in a hybrid program and only see our students in person 2 days a week. The other days they work at home with their parents. We also only have students for 30 weeks per year, so in order to cover the content required, we have to be strategic. I am looking for suggestions for a 2nd/3rd grade combination class, a 4th grade class and a combination 5/6th grade class. If you have an suggestions or advice, I’d be grateful.
Hi Tiffany! I emailed you!