Mode of Instruction: Teamwork          Purpose: Focus attention

Objective: To establish mathematics goals to focus learning, specific roles situated actions to move through a learning progression. Teacher monitors each team role through circulation.

In teams, two team members are mathematicians and two team members are observers. Team Member (1) and Team Member (2) problem solve, sharing explanations aloud. Team Member (3) listens to Team Members (1) and (2) and asks clarifying questions, as needed. Team Member (4) records observations about explanations and attitudes of participants, but Team Member (4) remains silent throughout the activity. After the assigned time—15 minutes—Team Member (4) shares notes and observations. Team Members (1), (2), and (3) may share their perspectives, as well. Variations of this activity include multiple rounds with the roles rotated to other members.

• Team Member (1) and Team Member (2) work on a math problem, explaining aloud.

• Team Member (3) listens and may ask clarifying questions.

• Team Member (4) only records what is discussed and verbalized—observes body language, team norms, or another focus area.

• After 15 minutes, Team Member (4) shares notes and observations.