For primary grade students in preschool through grade 2, having alphabetic activities is an important aspect of a writing center. For the ABC section, have a selection of alphabet materials such as magnetic letters and trays, tactile cards such as ABC cards that have glue bumps or beads, and ABC puzzles. Provide books with alphabet themes and coloring sheets featuring letters of the alphabet. For another good choice, use alphabet stamps to create special pages with provided blank paper.
Have a wide variety of materials available for students to practice handwriting. Have charts displaying the properly written alphabet. Write on/wipe off cards with all the letters are commercially available or you can create your own using cardboard, markers and clear contact paper. Have a shallow tray of cornmeal for students to trace letters into. Have handwriting paper and different pencils and pens, some with pencil grips to aid proper writing positioning.
Stock the writing center with supplies that make the writing center attractive and interesting for students. Paper in many textures, sizes and colors is always a must in a writing center. Allow students to create their own unique stationery by providing stamps, stickers and markers. Have a similar collection of envelopes to match the writing paper. Writing instruments should include crayons, pens and pencils in all types of colors and sizes. Erasers, correction tape and rulers should also be easily available to the emerging writers.
Vary the offerings of the writing center from time to time. Include a special collection on different writing themes, such as poetry or tall tales. Create a mini-post office for your classroom with special stamps, a post office box and assigned letter carriers. Display models of addressed letters or the proper format for a friendly letter. Showcase a special display of student-created books or projects. Perhaps feature a different student's work each week in a Writer's Hall of Fame.