Ways to Use Task Cards in Your Classroom
I love using task cards. For years, they were (and still are!) my favorite tool to do quick check-ins and even for independent work. Task cards are so versatile and can be used in any subject, really!
PS: Stay till the end to get a free task card set for your library!
What are task cards?
First off, what the heck is a task card?? Task cards are exactly what the name implies: a card with a task on it. The task could be anything, but there is just one task shown that the student focuses on. Task cards come in sets so that you can target specific learning goals, standards, or subjects. I love that task cards help students narrow in on just one task at a time. This is especially helpful for students who get overwhelmed.
Though the initial set-up of task cards can be quite time-consuming, when prepped properly (I recommend cutting then laminating and cutting again), they will last you years! Here are some of my favorite ways to use task cards in the classroom.
Small-Group Instruction
There are several ways to use task cards with small-group instruction. If you have several sets of your task cards, you can give each student the same one, or simply display the one card for them to complete on their individual whiteboards or papers. Alternatively, you could give each student a different task card. This makes it easy to differentiate.
Gallery Walks
Gallery walks are so fun and engaging for students. Give each student (or group of students!) a task card and have them solve their problem on a large piece of paper, showing all their work. Pro Tip: give them large markers - it’s such fun, and they love it! Once students finish their problems (give a time limit if need be), put their papers around the room. Have students go around and look at each student's process. Another Tip: have students leave their names off their papers to avoid various issues.
1:1 Sessions
Task cards are perfect for 1:1 sessions whether you are conferencing with students or even tutoring after school. They help the student focus, particularly if they struggle with the subject as only one problem is displayed at a time. The task set before them is clear and they can concentrate on what is in front of them.
Tip: It’s fun to display one card and give the student an individual whiteboard or let them write on the desk to solve it!
Math Centers
Students can independently work on task cards in math centers. They can also work in pairs or small groups. This is great for math rotations or even early-finisher work.
Practice or Challenge
Typically, task card sets will have varying levels or questions. This makes it easy to differentiate for students who may need extra practice, or who need a challenge. Since all students are working on tasks on cards, no one is the wiser. Don’t be afraid to go through a set and break up the questions
Digital Task Cards
You can also use digital task cards in the same way! Many task cards come with a digital option. BOOM! Cards utilize their platform for interactive task cards. Alternatively, you could try these clickable cards.
There are so many ways to use task cards and so many benefits to rolling them out in your classroom! Do you use task cards in your classroom? How do you use task cards if you do?
