HOW TO SET UP SCIENCE STATIONS (CLASSROOM SET UP IDEAS)

Invite your learners into the world of SCIENCE using science stations in your elementary classroom. It is a highly effective way to increase student engagement. Read below to learn how you can implement it in your classroom!

This blog post will…

• define science stations and their purpose
• offer three factors to consider 
• suggest furnishing and supply ideas and other tips

What are science stations?

Science stations are a framework that invite students to learn about the world around them through hands on learning experiences including science experiments. Students are active participants in their learning.

What is the purpose of science stations?

The purpose of science stations is to provide opportunities for students explore science concepts in the role of scientists.

When planning your science stations, you should consider three key factors:

• Time: How will you fit it in your school day?
• Location: Where will the science stations be in your classroom?
• Storage: How will you organize and store science materials?

What furnishings and supplies do I need to set up my science stations?

• Use trays to make the materials portable.
• Include scientific tools: magnifying glasses, microscopes, etc.
• Place a bin of science-themed nonfiction literature in the center.
• The great thing about a science center is that it can be put together without breaking the bank: Look to nature…acorns, leaves, pinecones, shells, soil, seeds, etc.

What other tips and ideas should I consider when setting up science stations?

• Set up an area in the classroom that enables students to explore and discover.
• Rotate the supplies seasonal, thematically or as interest continues.
• Let the children run the center. Assign a scientist of the week and have them research a science topic they are interested in. Encourage them to gather resources to share with the class and make them available to be explored.

SCIENCE CENTER TIPS

• Set up an area in the classroom that enables students to explore and discover.
• Use trays to make the materials portable.
• Rotate the supplies seasonal, thematically or as interest continues.
• Let the children run the center. Assign a scientist of the week and have them research a science topic they are interested in. Encourage them to gather resources to share with the class and make them available to be explored.
• Include scientific tools: magnifying glasses, microscopes, etc.
• Place a bin of science-themed nonfiction literature in the center.
• The great thing about a science center is that it can be put together on the cheap: look to nature…acorns, leaves, pinecones, shells, soil, seeds, etc.