A group of educators sits around a table during a collaborative workshop, smiling and reaching toward game pieces as they participate in an interactive activity.

Reflecting on Our October 8th Math PD: Empowering Teachers with Small Group Instruction and Manipulatives

Decatur County Schools

October 23, 2025

Reflecting on Our October 8th Math PD: Empowering Teachers with Small Group Instruction and Manipulatives

A presenter gestures while explaining a math lesson displayed on a large screen titled “Pattern Blocks 4.NR.4.1,” which shows colorful geometric shapes and fractions.

On Wednesday, October 8th, our primary and elementary teachers engaged in an enriching math professional development session focused on enhancing Tier 1 instruction through small group teaching and the strategic use of manipulatives.

Supporting Students Through Small Group Instruction

During the PD, educators explored how small group instruction can provide targeted support to students who may be struggling with specific math strategies. By working with students in smaller groups during regular math time, teachers can address learning gaps early and tailor their teaching to meet individual needs—helping all students build confidence and mastery.

Engaging Learners with Manipulatives

Two women wearing light purple shirts sit at a table during a group workshop or meeting, one holding a small plastic bag with colorful items while looking upward attentively.

Our teachers also discovered the power of manipulatives—hands-on tools like blocks and counters that make math concepts concrete and accessible. Using manipulatives in small groups encourages exploration and deeper understanding, supporting diverse learning styles and helping students visualize abstract ideas.

Building Skills for Effective Instruction

A woman in a lavender shirt smiles while arranging colorful pattern blocks on a yellow board during a group learning activity.

The session equipped teachers with practical strategies to:

  • Facilitate engaging manipulative activities aligned to lesson goals

  • Scaffold instruction to support gradual student independence

We are excited about the positive impact these approaches will have in our classrooms. Our teachers left the PD ready to create more personalized, hands-on math experiences that support every learner’s growth.

A group of teachers gathers around a table during a math professional development session.