Literacy Work Stations Launch...

I must have had amnesia from last year because I completely forgot how much effort goes into explaining the initial launch of workstations. We have spent the past five weeks of school going over all TEN of our work stations. Since my class grew in size I had to add more work stations. Although the initial explantations can be tiring on a teacher it is WELL worth it for the rest of the school year. For that reason, I do not like to rush the process! I truly wanted my students to know what their expectations are at each station, what they "can" do, and then have them be successful!

Today was our first day at our workstations. At the beginning of the year we only do one rotation a day (until the students are ready for two). Also, it is important to remember to monitor the students during the beginning! This is the time to correct those students who are still confused with what they should be doing at each workstation. Then, *hopefully* my small groups will be able to take place asap. 

Since I was busy monitoring... I apologize for the lack of pictures from today, but here is what I was able to snap...

1. Pocket Chart Station... Students are sorting class names in ABC order using either first or last names. In the younger grades, including the student pictures really helps! 

*I guess these littles decided to sort on the floor first*

Here is how it looks after they sort the names...

Below is the I can list I created for the Pocket Chart *This I Can list will grow and change as the activities at this workstation change*

2. Computer Workstation... they are currently using the website Starfall. 

3. Listening Workstation *Yes I moved it from it's original position in my room, I told you I have a problem with this, more to come on those changes in another post*

4. Handwriting Workstation... which will be transformed into a writing workstation as my students grow.

5. Buddy Reading... students put on their buddy reading visors (purchased at Hobby Lobby in a six pack), they sit in the EEKK position and then read!

Thanks to Ms. Thomas' suggestion, I put the buddy reading books in these bags (there is another below). She also created the directions to go in the front pocket of the bags. 

6. ABC/ Word Study... students sit by the Reading Focus Wall or the "Main Stage" and make their spelling words using magnetic letters. *This workstation will grow A LOT over the school year*

This is what the "Main Stage" looks like currently.

The I Can List I created for the students to use...

6. Big Book Station... Students use pointers to point to the words and read.

7. Classroom Library

Since I was unable to take pictures of all of the workstations I will try again and post tomorrow!