Color-Code Station Rotation

In this 20-minute, hands-on activity, students work in small groups to practice sorting tasks by urgency using three color-coded sticky notes. Rotate through three stations every 6–7 minutes.

Total Time: 20 minutes
Group Size: 3–4 students per group
Materials (per station):

• Station signs (Today, Soon, Later)
• Classroom timer or smartphone timer

Stations Overview

Station 1: Task Samples (6–7 minutes)

Objective: Sort ready-made tasks into Today, Soon, and Later.
Materials:

• Prewritten task sticky notes (e.g., “Feed the goldfish,” “Do homework,” “Clean your desk”)
• Three labeled bins or board sections: #FFE39C Today, #FFD670 Soon, #FFC53A Later
  Instructions:

1. Pick one sticky note at a time.
2. Discuss with your group whether it belongs in Today, Soon, or Later.
3. Place it in the matching color bin or section.
4. After sorting all notes, check as a group that each note makes sense.

Station 2: Personalized Tasks (6–7 minutes)

Objective: Write and categorize your own daily tasks.
Materials:

• Blank sticky notes in #FFE39C, #FFD670, #FFC53A
• Writing utensils
• Three labeled bins or board sections as above
  Instructions:

1. Think of six tasks you need to do (two for each category).
2. Write one task clearly on each sticky note.
3. Choose the correct color and place it in the matching bin or section.
4. Share with your group why you placed each task there.

Station 3: Creative Challenge (6–7 minutes)

Objective: Collaboratively create a mini-poster mapping a routine.
Materials:

• Large chart paper or poster board
• Markers and crayons
• A mix of blank sticky notes in all three colors
  Instructions:

1. Choose a routine (e.g., morning routine or homework time).
2. On chart paper, draw three columns labeled Today, Soon, and Later.
3. Use sticky notes to add each step of the routine under the correct column.
4. Decorate the poster with markers and illustrations.

Rotation & Cleanup (Transition time)

• Rotation Signal: Use the classroom timer set to 6–7 minutes.
• Cleanup: At each signal, leave materials organized before moving to the next station.
• Teacher Role: Circulate to guide discussions, prompt students to justify choices, and remind groups of time.

After Stations: Students will use their favorite two tasks from any station to complete the Sticky Note Task Matrix Worksheet during the next 5-minute segment.

Sticky Note Task Matrix Worksheet

Write two of your favorite tasks from today’s activities into the correct column below. Use neat writing and make sure each task goes under the matching color category.

Team Reflection Chat

Purpose:
Bring the class together to talk about what they learned, share ideas, and make connections to other situations.

Discussion Guidelines

• Raise your hand before speaking.
• Listen respectfully when others share.
• Speak in complete sentences and use our “turn-and-talk” voices.
• Be kind and positive—there are no wrong answers!

Procedure (5 minutes)

1. Arrange students in a circle or at desks facing the board.
2. Display or write these reflection prompts on the board:
   1. How did using colors help you organize your tasks?
   2. Which station did you like most and why?
   3. Where else could you use this sticky-note strategy (at home, in another class, etc.)?
3. Call on 1–2 volunteers for each question.
4. After each response, briefly paraphrase or build on what was said:
   • “Great idea, Sam—colors helped you remember your morning routine steps!”
   • “I like how Ana wants to use this strategy for reading assignments.”
5. Keep the pace moving: aim for about 1 minute per question.

Follow-Up Prompts (if time allows)

• Did any color feel easiest or hardest to use?
• How did talking with your group influence your choices?
• If you could add a fourth color, what category would it be and why?

Closing (30 seconds)

• Summarize key points: Colors help our brains sort tasks.
• Encourage students to try this strategy in tomorrow’s class or at home.
• Celebrate participation: “Thank you for sharing—what a colorful job!”