Using Task Cards In Math.

One of the new teaching strategies I've run across is the use of task cards.  Task cards are defined as a card that has an activity or question on it and is the size of a small card no larger than a 3 by 5 index card.  Some task cards have pictures on them to show what is to be done or they might have written instructions.    Task cards come in two types.  The first asks a question that requires an answer from the student while the second suggests an activity the student should do.

Question task cards are found in several variations.  These cards may be multiple choice, long or short answer, or fill in the blank while the activity cards ask students to do something.  The activity cards require that the teacher have extra materials available for the activity.

Task cards are considered superior to worksheets since they can be more motivating.  They also require less reading which for students who have trouble reading, this means they are more comfortable in completing the task.  Worksheets can have more words than struggling students are willing to read at any one time.

In addition, students feel a sense of accomplishment by completing the task when these same students struggle to finish a worksheet.  Task cards are much easier to differentiate than worksheets and students are able to choose a task they can complete.  For instance, if you have task cards, some with multiple choice, some with long answer, students can select the one they are better able to finish.  Another possibility is to create cards with different levels from easy to hard so students can choose the card they want.

Furthermore, task cards can be designed for individuals, small groups, whole groups, learning centers, or even as part of a game.  When task cards are used for individuals, each student gets a card to do or students can take the task card home to do it at home after school.  Another way is to give every student a card to answer.  Once they've written the answer down on a white board, or paper, the teacher tells them to move one over and they to a new location where they answer a new card.  They continue the movement until they've done every card.

Another use is to divide the class up into pairs who sit or stand back to back.  The teacher reads the task card to the class.  Each student answers the question on a whiteboard and when they both have answers, they compare to see if they came up with the same answer.  Or divide the students into two groups.  Have one group sit in chairs facing inward while the other group faces out so they are face to face.  Pass out one task card to each set of two and they work on the answer together.  After a couple of minutes, ask students to move, one group goes left while the other goes in the opposite direction.

When used with small groups, the teacher can read one card and have all the students work on the same problem.  The ability level of the card is determined by the level of the group.  Furthermore, the tasks can focus on specific skills as needed.  

Task cards are also great bell ringers or warm-up questions, exit ticket tasks, or if your students finish the assignment earlier than expected, have them do some task cards. Keep extra sets in the classroom for anytime you need a filler.  Task cards are handy.

Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.