Pocket+Charts

Pocket Charts

Materials:

 * file folders
 * card stock
 * tape
 * scissors
 * plastic storage bags



Directions:

 * 1) Cut three 1/2" x 11 5/8" card stock strips for each pocket chart to be made.
 * 2) On the top half (tabbed side) of an open file folder, arrange card stock strips horizontally and spacing them evenly on the folder. Note: The bottom card stock strip should be placed at the fold. The top card stock strip should be at least 1 1/2" to 2" from the top of the folder. Place the remaining strip in between the two.)
 * 3) Create narrow pockets from the strips by taping the bottom edge of the strip to the folder. Be sure to wrap the tape around to the back side of the folder. Hint: For extra reinforcement, wrap a piece of transparent tape around the entire edge of each pocket.
 * 4) Prepare activity cards by word-processing on card stock or writing on pre-cut card stock.
 * 5) Cut out cards. Hint: To make them last longer, laminate cards.
 * 6) Create a storage pocket on the back of the folder.
 * 7) Store cards in plastic storage bag.

To Use:
Pocket charts can be used for limitless learning activities. A pocket chart is ideal for any activity that can be grouped or sequenced. Here are some ideas:

//**Alphabet Cards**//
 * Have students practice weekly spelling words by spelling words in each pocket. HInt: Prepare multiple sets of alphabet letters since students will need duplicate letters. A few blank cards are useful in which the student can add a needed letter with a non-permanent marker.



//**Numbers and Math Operations Symbols**//
 * Have students create equations based on addition/subtraction facts, multiplication/division tables, or selected math operations to be learned. Create multiples of numbers as they will be used multiple times. The pocket chart is useful for students to show work on each pocket for 2- and 3-step equations.



//**Words and Punctuation Marks**//
 * Beginning readers can compose sentences using words and punctuation marks.
 * Rhyming words can be placed sorted in various pockets.
 * Words with the same blends, prefixes or suffixes can be sorted in pockets.



//**Timelines/Sequenced Events**//
 * Historical events sequenced in pockets. Example: Sequencing the battles of the Civil War.
 * Events that occur in a regular cycle can be sequenced in pockets. Example: Life cycle of a plant, developmental milestones in an infant.



//**Picture Cards for Non-readers**//
 * Use pictures for identification for young children who are learning pre-reading skills. Example: Pictures of words that rhyme can be grouped.
 * Pictures of words that start with the same sound can be grouped.