New to using stations and centers?
Not sure if science stations are right for your students?
Worry that groups are too large?
Wondering what to do with students at different skill levels?
Not sure about the mess and organization?
We can help!
Here are our 3 TOP TIPS and solutions to common problems.
Problem: Groups are too large for everyone to have access to the materials.
Solution: Make multiple copies of some stations: Some activities may be more difficult to complete in large groups so making multiple copies will allow for larger groups to break up into small, more manageable groupings for certain tasks. I recommend this for create it, match it, sort it and explore it stations.
Problem: Students are at different skill levels.
Solution: Let students work at their own pace: While timers and a rotation routine can both be helpful classroom tools, for stations, it may be a good idea to allow students to work through the stations at their own pace.
Different stations require different skills therefore highlighting various strength and refinement areas for various students.
Allowing students to work at their own pace will help them to quickly move through mastered skills and give them an opportunity to slow down and practice other skills.
Problem: Station materials get messy.
Solution: Organize Stations in Bins: Bins are a great way to keep the materials for each different station organized and together. Bins are also great for travel if a student needs to bring a particular station to a different setting to complete it.
Why We Love Stations
Stations are an amazing way to review, enrich and expand your students’ learning.
Students need additional time to process new information and opportunities to deepen their knowledge.
Stations are a great way for students to work through new information they learned during mini-lessons, reading, and labs.
Oh- and did we mention how many skills your students get to practice with each set of stations?
Stations will completely transform the classroom experience for you and your students.
Get Started!
Want ready-to-use stations? We’ve got you covered! Get your stations bundle here!
There are 13 units available on TpT that are ready to print and use.
Bundle Deal
Try the bundle of 13 units. That’s 117 stations! See it on TPT: Science Stations Bundle
Sign up for the Free Resource Library
This is an exclusive library of 40+ science printables, labs, activities, and games for grades 3-6. Sign up and check your email for immediate access.