Structured for Success

Ramp-Up students become better learners because the extended workshop focuses their work and keeps the emphasis of all activity squarely on the mathematics. The format is consistent, so students know what to do and how to do it at all times, yet it is also flexible enough that teachers can expand or contract the lesson structure as they see fit. The routines and learning rituals help to reduce management issues, so teachers are free to guide conversations, ask questions, model problem solving, and gently lead students in one direction or correct them in another. In Ramp-Up workshops, teachers can observe the totality of the learning community. This, in turn, lets them differentiate instruction for specific individuals or small groups.

Three basic types of lessons organize the material: regular lessons, “Putting it Together” lessons, and “Putting Mathematics to Work” lessons. In addition, each unit may have one or more “Progress” lessons that focus entirely on review.

Types of Lessons

• Regular: These lessons begin with an Opening and move through the usual extended workshop format.
• Putting it Together lessons: These lessons review or summarize material; they include almost everything the students have learned thus far in a unit.
• Putting Mathematics to Work lessons: These lessons focus on the application of concepts in a way that extends what students have been doing in class.
• Progress Check lessons: These lessons focus entirely on review and may vary somewhat in format from regular lessons. Lessons and homework typically involve work that is more reflective in nature.
• Learning from the Progress Check lessons: These lessons help students to evaluate their progress and determine where they need more assistance. Special problems that focus on different areas of weakness are assigned during Work Time.

Daily Workshop Format