One of the most underutilized, high-impact strategies in an algebra classroom is structured peer tutoring.

The Benefit for the Tutee: They get one-on-one help from someone who just recently learned the material and can explain it in a relatable way.

The Benefit for the Tutor: This is the real magic. The act of teaching a concept is the single most powerful way to solidify one's own understanding.

To teach something, you must break it down, organize it, and anticipate confusion. This forces a much deeper level of mastery.

It builds confidence and leadership skills in the tutor.

It creates a positive, collaborative classroom culture where students see each other as resources.

The key is structure. It shouldn't be a free-for-all. The teacher should provide clear tasks and train the tutors on how to guide, not just give answers.

A common method is 'reciprocal peer tutoring,' where students switch roles, so everyone gets to be both the tutor and the tutee.

Peer tutoring is not about getting the 'smart kids' to teach the 'struggling kids.'

It's about creating a system where every student can deepen their own learning by helping others. It's a win-win.