We are working on solving quadratic equations by square roots. I wanted the kids to get some practice in class before I sent them on their way with practice for home. I chose to use one of Kagan's structures, Rally Coach. I taught them four of the team cheers from Kagan and they loved it! Getting silly in math, why not! I think them seeing me super animate each cheer was exactly what we needed to liven things up a bit. Even weeks later they are cheering each other on with the silly cheers.
Each set of partners received a recording sheet with about 12 problems, with the sheet folded in half longways. The partners take turns solving the equations. The one solving the equation talks their partner through the entire problem. I told them that they can't write anything they don't talk about. After partner A solves the first problem, Partner B gives them a cheer and they switch roles and turn the paper over to the other side. It's really a pretty easy activity, but it's the silly cheers that make it so fun.
This was the first time I have tried a Kagan structure, but I'm loving the student engagement I saw and will definitely be trying some others.
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