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
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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)
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
Practice the routine of transitioning from one station to another
Create a handy reference that they can check easily
4. Assemble Groups Quickly
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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!
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Model the Activity
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What to do when done
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How to Reset Station
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