The size of your classroom will dictate how many workstations you can have and how large they can be. Maximize space by moving the desks into the middle of the room and setting up the workstations along the outer edge of the classroom. If you don't have room for several workstations, create one large one. Make it a multipurpose workstation to allow your pupils to work on several subjects at the same time. Or, on a weekly basis, rotate the subjects to be completed at the station.
Use bins and containers to store applicable materials your pupils will need at the workstation. Clearly label all bins to indicate what's inside. Ensure the workstation is well stocked with supplies such as pencils, pens and paper. Fasten a dry whiteboard on the workstation wall where you can write daily instructions for students to complete. Decorate your workstations according to subject. For a station featuring language and reading, for example, decorate with your pupils' favorite literary quotes. Or plaster the wall or table with postcards from foreign countries at a social studies workstation.
As your fifth-grade pupils transition to more complex subject matter, you will need to give them more time to complete tasks. Set aside half-hour blocks of time when your pupils can complete work at the workstation. Allow them to work in pairs or small groups. If your pupils work better alone, create a sign-up sheet on which pupils can sign up for workstation time.
To keep your pupils focused, establish a system to hold them accountable for the work they do at the workstation. Have them write a couple of sentences about the task performed, including what they learned from or enjoyed about the activity, in an accountability journal. When grading or checking assignments, compare the entry made in journal with the individual pupil's actual work.