How To Use Math Stations In The Classroom

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I really like the concept of math work stations. It is a simple concept that can be tailored to any situation (at any level of mathematics), and can be as elaborate or as simple as you like.

The basic idea is to prepare one set of worksheets and place them at desks clustered around the room to review or practice.The concept of stations works well with all levels of math problems. The problems may be simple algebraic practice problems, word problems, application problems, problems using manipulatives and/or writing problems. The choice is yours.

Work stations are a wonderful opportunity for students to discuss mathematics. In her book Math Work Stations, Debbie Diller gives you ideas to help develop conceptual understanding and skills. This book details how to set up, manage, and keep math stations going throughout the year. There’s even a chapter devoted solely to organizing and using math manipulatives. Throughout the book, Debbie has included hundreds of color photos showing math work stations in action from a variety of classrooms in which she has worked. Charts, reproducible forms, and math work stations icons are included to provide everything you’ll need to get started with stations in your classroom right away.

Working with first- and second-grade teachers and students, Debbie shows how to find the time and space for math stations, how to organize and manage manipulatives, how to move from whole-group lessons that focus on a particular math concept to stations work, how to foster all-important math talk, and more.

Diane Waters is a former teacher and avid blogger who enjoys sharing her thoughts on education and home schooling.. She lives in Mesa, Arizona with her two daughters and husband as well as her two dogs and a cat. She believes every day is an adventure and every moment is to be cherished.