Task cards are becoming a widely used instructional and practice tool in classrooms all over the world. They are versatile, great for centers or interventions, can be used as an early finisher activity, and even sub plans. But how exactly can task cards be used in the classroom? There are many ways to use task cards! Here are seven ideas!

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Enhance Literacy with Embedded Grammar Lessons

Research on the Science of Reading (SOR) dating back to the 1970s shows that teaching grammar as isolated rules doesn't effectively transfer to writing and speaking. What works better is embedding grammar within the context of writing. This is why our writing program Lucky to Learn Writing (LTLW) includes grammar skills integrated into writing lessons. This approach ensures that the same skills and standards are met, but in a meaningful context that connects with the rest of the literacy curriculum.

We also recognize the value of targeted practice and intervention to reinforce these skills. That's why we've compiled a list of our favorite grammar activities that provide additional practice and intervention opportunities. These activities are designed to complement our integrated approach, ensuring students have a well-rounded understanding of grammar concepts. Let's dive into these engaging and effective activities!

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1. Small Groups (Teacher Directed)

The first time students are introduced to task cards I would suggest that they are done under teacher supervision and direction. Small groups is a great option. The teacher shows the students one task card and the students solve the task card on their own white board or Toothy mat.

2. Small Groups (Self Paced)

Once students understand how to use task cards, another great option would be self paced within a small group. This could be at the teacher table or as an independent center. Each student would have their own set of cards to work through. It's best to have task cards that have the answers on the back to allow for students to be 100% self paced, independent, and able to check their answers for accuracy.

3. Partner Games

Students love to use task cards as a partner game. Again, it's ideal if the answers are on the back of the cards for self-checking, instant feedback purposes. Students take turns choosing a card, both students solve, compare answers, and then check for accuracy.

4. Scoot

Scoot is fun because it gets kids up and moving. When playing scoot, the teacher sets a task card on each desk or table spot around the classroom. Each student has a clipboard and recording sheet. They start at their own spot and answer the task card by writing the answer on the recording sheet. The teacher has a signal that alerts the students when it is time to switch to the next desk. The game continues until the students have made it to every task card in the classroom. The recording sheets can be turned in to be corrected or corrected together with the teacher.

5. Hang Around the Room

This would be another way to get students up and moving. The teacher hangs the task cards around the perimeter of the classroom at eye level. Another option would be to hide the task cards and treat it like a scavenger hunt. The students each have a recording sheet and clip board and move freely around the classroom finding task cards to solve.

6. Board Games

All students love board games so this option is always a hit! Checkers, Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, Connect Four, Monopoly, etc are all great games to play with task cards. The rules for these games stay the same but there is one added element. The student needs to solve a task card and present the answer to the rest of the players before taking their turn at the game.

7. Notebooks

The last option would be to place the task cards into a notebook. Each task card acts like a flip flap in an interactive notebook. The cards get printed on white paper and cut out by the students. The answers get written underneath the task card after it's been glued down to the notebook.

8. BONUS – Digital Toothy Reading Task Cards

Digital Toothy ® Task Cards are a fun option to practice and review reading concepts using a device. Devices that are compatible with this digital resource are iPads™, Chromebooks™, laptops, and desktop computers. Digital Toothy Task cards do work with Google Classroom and SeeSaw. They can also be shared in Canvas, Class Dojo, or simply email the link. Step by step video and printed directions are shared inside the product. There are 27 different reading sets included in this bundle. Each reading concept includes a sentence, paragraph, or passage along with questions that focus on the skill being practiced. These digital reading task cards are self-correcting and self-paced. They provide a fun incentive to stay focused on the reading task by offering the ability to add a tooth in Toothy’s mouth for every correct answer.

PLUS: All digital reading sets include the option for the student to play the audio of the passage being read to them. This is a wonderful upgrade to the digital set and great for differentiation! Digital Toothy® Task Cards are a great option for your students to use as:

• centers
• early finishers
• morning work
• Digital Learning Days

Self Correcting Task Cards are Key

As mentioned above, self correcting task cards are key because they allow for the students to be completely independent, self paced, and they receive instant feedback on whether or not they are solving the problem correctly. We have a variety of task cards for grades K-3 below!