Why is grouping students by fact families in Susan's second-grade class effective?

Grouping students by fact families is effective because it encourages collaboration and discussion among students regarding the concept being learned. When students discuss the relationships between numbers, such as addition and subtraction fact families (for example, 2 + 3 = 5 and 5 - 3 = 2), they deepen their understanding of these mathematical concepts through peer interaction. This discussion promotes critical thinking and helps students articulate their reasoning, which is an important aspect of learning in mathematics. Engaging in dialogue about the material allows students to clarify their thoughts, confront misconceptions, and solidify their understanding through explanation and inquiry with their peers. This social aspect of learning enhances the overall educational experience and fosters a supportive classroom environment where students are actively participating and learning from each other.