ALT TIPS FOR CREATING EFFECTIVE CENTERS (STATIONS) MODEL PROCEDURES “Model each center as you introduce it.” (Source: Elizabeth Coller) INCLUDE DIRECT INSTRUCTION “Each academic group comes to the teacher in groups of 4 to 6 students for direct instruction. In the other centers, activities are planned out for groups to do independent work.” (Source: TeachThought) USE TASK CARDS Write numbered directions at each station. Include the learning target as well as how the station should look when students finish up. HAVE A BACKUP PLAN Have an activity ready for kids who don’t follow behavior expectations or for students who finish their center activities early. INCLUDE VARIETY Online, offline, listening, group work, floor work, visual representations, individual work, practice, problem-solving, etc.
