Do you have a hectic schedule this year? Then it is time to simplify your life. One way to do this is to have centers with the same format. You will save time by not having to explain the directions every week. You already have the supplies that you need to set it up, all you have to do is make a few copies and then you are ready to go. So you save time with set up, too.
My writing center packets have a month's worth of centers. I just added the October to my store this week. If you follow my Facebook page, you heard about my special deal. You can save 50% for the first two days. So, you'd better hurry because it ends on Sunday!
Divide your class into writing ability groups. Students will check the chart before they go to their writing center to find out their extension assignment. This is an easy way to differentiate the center. If you use my morning message packets, your students are already familiar with doing this.
Each week there is a different topic. All you need to do to prepare for the new week is copy the 4 word cards and 2 assignments. See how quick and easy that is!!!!
One of the extension assignments is to write a story using all of the words. There is a story paper included.
The easiest way to organize the assignments is to use colorful folders. Put the assignment with 3 words in one color folder, the assignment with 4 words in another color folder, and the writing paper in the third colored folder.
I love the small pocket chart that is in the picture above. At the bottom is a pocket that I can keep the entire month's supply of word cards. At the end of the month, I can take out all of the cards and put in next month's cards. I bought this pocket chart at Target's Dollar Spot. That seems to be teachers' favorite shopping place!
I have writing packets for the following months and themes:
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