MAKING IT MANAGEABLE
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Tips on Running Stations

Stations/Centers can be so much fun and make your life so much easier, but it takes work on the front end. Here are some things that have made things easier for teachers who have successfully implemented stations in their classrooms

1. Themes Throughout the Year

Responsibility
- with materials
-for your own learning
Metacognition
-color helps us remember
-how to study (don't look at answers before guessing out loud or in your head)
There's always something you can be doing
- where can early finishers find things
-what is okay and not okay to do when done with the current task

2. Station Label Visibility

Station # or Name needs to be visible from a distance and even when students are standing.  This means that the label needs to be vertical (and not just flat on the desk)
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Propped on a Stand
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Index Card Tent
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Hanging from the Ceiling
SchoolGirlStyle.com
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Taped to the Wall

3. Students Know Where to Go Next

They should be able to quickly figure out where to go next with LIMITED thinking. You want them focused on the content, not the logistics.
Practice the routine of transitioning from one station to another
Create a handy reference that they can check easily
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AllStudentsCanShine
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TheGoToTeacher.com
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4. Assemble Groups Quickly

Student-chosen
Set a timer
Play a quick song
*this option can take the least upfront time, but the most time dealing with discipline issues
Random
Draw a color name badge
Count off
Puzzle Match
Phylum Names
Pre-Chosen by Teacher
Establish multiple set groups (¢ Δ ☐)
Group Strong students with Weak Studednts
Group like-needs
Table Partners

5. Be Explicit!

Model the Activity
What to do when done
How to Reset Station
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  • Home
  • Managing Stations
  • Favorite Materials
  • Hanging Folders
  • Expectations
  • Digital Documentation
  • Meaningful Site
  • Tips on Running Stations