Kaelyn Riley- Literacy Centers

I did a random search and came across some great resources for teachers who want to implement literacy centers in their classrooms. The first website I found is called Implementing Literacy Centers in the Primary Classroom. (http://www.trcabc.com/resources/curriculum/implementing-literacy-centers-in-the-primary-classroom/). It discusses the benefits of having literacy centers in classrooms for grades 1-5. The article says the earlier centers focus on word work, writing, grammar, reading, speaking, and listening. They then go on to list various types of primary grade literacy centers, which included: alphabet center, word study center, listening center, art center, writing center, handwriting center, paired reading, drama, poetry, computer center, journal center, music center, felt board center, author study center, and literacy games. Each one was described, and some even had links of exact activities that could be used in each station. This article shows us that literacy is not just sitting at a center reading. There are various ways to get children reading, and have them enjoy what they are learning about, rather than mundane, repetitive tasks. Later in the article, third grade through fifth grade centers are described as being more self-directed and independent activities, such as a book club and self-expression.

Another website I found about literacy centers was (http://www.hubbardscupboard.org/abc_centers.html). I really liked this website, because not only did it describe what some specific literacy centers were, but also had pictures of the activities, so that you could create your own stations using these examples. The author calls them ABC centers, in which the students get very excited to be active while also doing a lot of learning. They are “practicing and developing letter/sound knowledge, listening skills oral language expression, rhyme, letter formation, cooperation, etc.” On the website, rules are discussed which would be important to discuss with students so everyone understands the process of stations, and what is expected to occur. Also, organization described as having each student assigned to one of four groups, and then each group is color-coded, and then most of the ABC Centers are completed at their table. The materials needed are stored in labeled tubs at a level accessible by the children. The author also discusses some other links she would recommend, including some websites, and a few books.

Both of these websites make it very easy for a teacher, with the right materials, to set up stations for literacy skill practice. Each talks about the specifics of each station, and how to properly implement them, creatively.