Learning
Centres- Organization of Time
How do I begin to organize the class time?
When setting up your timetable, schedule blocks of time
for Phys. Ed. , subject exchanges or preparation times first. Try to include
daily sharing times and input sessions to allow for large group discussions,
explanations and direction. A regular sharing time for celebrations of learning
and accomplishments is also important.
1. Input sessions -5 minute instructional time or mini lesson:
Centre tasks introduced, specific skills taught, or large group activities
take place. Introduce new activities over time so input sessions are brief.
Remind students of procedures and focus on the work they
will be involved in.
Review
any directions, answer questions or reinforce good behavior or work that
has been produced.
Work that has needed teacher checking, may be handed
back for corrections.
Input
Session Video
2. Centre time - 15 - 30 minutes
per station depending on age of learners and familiarity of procedures.
Lengthen time gradually
as students adjust to centres.
While students work,
the teacher observes, monitors, conferences with individuals or works with
small groups on instructional, remedial or enrichment activities. This is
also a time for writing conferences or small group guided reading instruction.
Students return to "group
space" between centre rotations to provide closure, brief refocusing
or evaluation time.
Centre Transition Video
3. Closure/evaluation time - 5 - 10 minutes -
reinforce positive centre time events and review expectations
Self
evaluation time - start simply with a thumbs up/thumbs down self evaluation
and work towards reflective journals over time
Close with a brief sharing time where students have the
opportunity to share from their Writer's Workshop or other activity work.
Student sharing may be a done through rotation or a sign-up sheet.
Tips for Organization
Determine the maximum
number of students at each centre at a time - this is dependent on the type
of activity and the specific goals. The ideal is 4 - 6 students.
Identify each centre
by its name and content. Have all necessary materials in close proximity.
Provide some time each
week for students to finish incomplete activities. Students who have completed
everything can read independently or visit free choice centres. Incomplete
work stored in a personal folder or portfolio is a constant reminder of
what needs to be finished and saves time passing work out.
Let students manage the
setup and clean up of centres
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Best Practices: Pieces of the Puzzle Copyright 2003 Regina Public Schools and Saskatchewan Learning |
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