That Tall Teacher : Teaching in Centers

Hi there!!

I wanted to jump on here and talk about what happens in my first grade classroom in terms of instruction and share some resources with you!

So, my classroom is the inclusion classroom in first grade. This means there is quite a big range of needs and abilities. It also means I have a full time paraprofessional (I know I'm lucky!) and there is also a variety of push in support throughout the day. In order to utilize this help in the most meaningful way without any adults having to watch me teach whole group.

For phonics and math instruction, I utilize small group instruction. By doing this I feel as though I am utilizing our time much more wisely, meeting the needs of all students (both high, middle, and low), and the other adults in the room feel helpful and needed!

This blog is going to focus on phonics and part two of this will jump into math!

First, let's talk phonics!

During phonics on Monday, Thursdays, and Fridays, I have about an hour (sometimes longer for phonics- YAY!) I have 4 stations set up in my classroom:

-Fluency
-Trick Word Practice
-Word Work
-Meet the Teacher

I keep the above slideshow that contains the groups and a timer! I keep the centers to about 10-12 minutes.

Fluency

During fluency they are spending a lot of time reading decodable texts, practicing tapping out words, etc. Basically, ANYTHING to get them reading words!

Trick Word Practice

Trick word practice is where things have gotten much more exciting with STUDENT CHOICE! I am SO excited about this!

During this time we are utilizing MANY different activities all of their choice which makes it ten times more engaging for them!

One activity that I keep is "a weekly game". For this choice, I am utilizing my editable word work pack.

Now, if you are part of my newsletter subscription (if not be sure to sign up) below! You will be receiving a newsletter only freebie on April 1st! This freebie is what I keep in my "Sentence Writing" drawer in my trick word center!

Word Work

During word work, I love to use a mix of games and word building. I love to keep learning fun and hands on. Some of these activities require a bit more prep, but once they're made its done! I've had some of my favorite word work activities since my first year teaching!

Meet The Teacher

At this point, we are simply working on our Fundations! BUT, I am able to really differentiate based on what they need. I can either push, teach the lesson as is, or review/support based on what they need! I have gotten to know their skills and abilities in phonics so much more this way!