Parallel teaching is an effective strategy for co-teachers to ensure smaller student-to-teacher ratios during lessons. By splitting the class into two equal groups, each teacher delivers the same lesson to a smaller group, providing more individualized attention. Teachers who regularly use parallel teaching report that they get to know their students better, can assess students’ progress more effectively, and find it easier to differentiate instruction. For new lessons, it’s important to keep the groups heterogeneous by ability so all students have access to grade-level content.
However, like any teaching strategy, parallel teaching presents a few common challenges. Noise and distraction can make this model tricky to manage. Here are some strategies to address those concerns and make parallel teaching work seamlessly in your classroom.
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The Echo Effect
One of the biggest challenges in parallel teaching is the “echo effect.” Since both teachers are delivering the same lesson content, they can unintentionally end up saying the same thing at the same time, which can be distracting for both teachers and students. This can throw off the flow of instruction. Here are a few solutions to minimize the echo effect:
- Stagger Your Start: Set up your lessons so you each begin in a different place. For example, one teacher begins by reviewing vocabulary while the other starts with an essential question. Alternatively, teachers can divide the lesson into sections and begin with different questions or activities, such as starting with problem one while the other starts with problem two.
- Vary Your Materials and Strategies: Although both teachers are teaching to the same objective, using different materials or teaching techniques can keep things fresh and avoid the repetition of the same exact instructions. For example, one teacher might use a visual aid while the other uses a hands-on activity. As long as both groups reach the same objective, you can use different instructional strategies.
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Noise and Distraction
Another concern with parallel teaching is managing the noise and potential distractions that can arise from two simultaneous lessons in the same room. While most students eventually adjust to the routine, some strategies can help keep noise levels under control and prevent distractions from becoming a problem:
- Strategic Positioning: Arrange your groups so that the students’ backs are facing each other, allowing teachers to maintain visibility of each other. This simple change can make a big difference in reducing distractions.
- Vary the Physical Setup: Positioning one group at a different height than the other can create a physical separation that helps reduce noise. For example, one group might sit on the floor while the other sits in chairs, or one group might stand while the other remains seated.
- Use Your Inside Voice: Teachers are often accustomed to projecting their voices in large spaces. However, speaking in a quieter voice (almost a whisper) can capture students’ attention and reduce overall classroom noise.
- Physical Dividers: Consider using items like bookshelves, easels, or rolling whiteboards to create a physical barrier between the two groups. Some teachers even hang a shower curtain on a clothing rack to create a divider when using parallel teaching. Make sure to check on what is considered a fire hazard… we want everyone safe!
- Use Another Space: As long as you are grouping heterogeneously and rotating who leaves the room, it’s perfectly fine to move one group to another location. Some teachers have successfully worked with one group in the library, a neighboring classroom, or even the hallway. This allows for a quieter, more focused learning environment.
While parallel teaching does present some challenges, these strategies can help minimize the noise and distractions that may arise. By continuously adapting and trying new approaches, you’ll find ways to make parallel teaching a highly effective and engaging teaching model for your classroom. It provides opportunities for differentiation, personalized instruction, and a more focused learning environment for all students.