In this area, place items that directly relate to letters and the alphabet. Select several alphabet puzzles that require children to organize letters into alphabetic order. Place alphabet letter stamps here, where children can practice stamping out their ABCs or stamp out words. Put a set of alphabet magnets for children to practice spelling out words. Magnetic letters give children a chance to manipulate a word into a new word. Depending on the skills of the child, give him work to do at this center that is specific to what he is learning. An early reader would do well to practice letters and sounds, while an advanced reader should practice spelling out more challenging words.
Set out tools for students to use to practice counting objects. Allow your pupils to measure various paper cutouts. When having children measure items, give a recording sheet so you can check their work later. Place games in the 123 center such as "Roll and Record." In this game, children roll a die and need to record their answers. To challenge children, have them roll the dice and add and subtract numbers. Model for students how to use all the materials to ensure the items will be used correctly.
Utilize lessons specific to what you are currently teaching your pupils. For example, for a until about magnets, set out various magnets for the children to sample the magnets' strength. Along with the magnets put a collection of magnetic and nonmagnetic items. Have the children predict which items are magnetic and which are not. Instruct pupils to record their findings on a data sheet. Alternatively, create science learning centers that explore a variety of scientific concepts outside of your lesson plans.
Assemble small groups of five or less to work with the teacher. Work on skills specific to their learning needs. For example, if the group consists of early readers, conduct a guided reading lesson. Introduce a book and point out challenging words and draw attention to the pictures. Read the book as a group using the teacher copy. After reading together, give children an individual copy to use for practice. Listen to the children practice reading and note strategies they each use. Quiz the children and create fun games to build knowledge of letters and sounds.