L2K Workshop Game Plan

I have done "Workshop" for two years with first graders
two years with second graders.
Because each group of students is different,
I adjust the way we do workshop every year!
Here are some of the basics, but keep in mind
that you need to make changes to fit YOUR class!

How do you group students?
           I do not usually put the children into groups and rotate them through the centers. Can you imagine how frustrating it would be if, just as you were about to finish a project, some arbitrary bell would force you to move along to another project? We don't need to do this to children.
           Instead, the students mark their choices on "planning papers" and proceed to any activity that is open. The planning papers are very specific. They include a variety of activities, including traditional "center-style" activities and more specific, goal-oriented tasks which I call "jobs."

see planning papers or jobs.

How much time does workshop take?
            Workshop time varies. Twenty minutes would be a minumum. On good days, we can go over an hour. I try to tell the children exactly how long workshop will be. Five to ten minutes before the end, I give a signal, and students who have large quantities of materials out need to start cleaning up.

How do you keep records?
           As workshop comes to a close, students make sure their planning papers show all that was accomplished. The planning papers become MY record of student progress.

How many centers do you have?
          Well, THAT'S a tricky one....
           When I taught preschool and kindergarten, my centers were "true" centers: areas containing all the materials for thematic activities. Now, the only "true" center I have is the art center. All other activities are spread out all over the room!
           Here are the "basic" types of activities which I include on the planning papers:
  1. Art activities: both "open" and "closed."
  2. Computer activities: these are always SPECIFIC!
  3. Science cart activities: most are stored in Rubbermaid plastic shoeboxes on the science cart. They can be taken to desks OR they may require a large amount of space at the table.
  4. Reading assignments: things like "read with a buddy" or search for information in the class library.
  5. "Jobs." These are the specific, goal-oriented activities that are boxed and stored in a special area. Job box lids have printed instructions. Some instructions are for individuals, others for groups. see jobs


How do you decide what kinds of activities to include for workshop?

A few things to keep in mind when designing activities:
  • All activities are simple enough for children to do independently.
  • Some activities are "open-ended," others are "closed" and can be checked by teacher or student.
  • All materials are readily available.
  • Some activities are completed solo, others in pairs or groups.
  • Activities are offered at a wide range of skill levels.
  • Seasonal or special interest activities are included.
Home
I. student work         II. parent handbook         III. teacher materials
A. centers
1. GAME PLAN   2. planning papers 3. jobs   4. science centers   5. art centers   6. computer centers