Using an Early Finisher Activity Choice Board in the ELA Classroom

Do you have a few speedy students who race through assignments and run out of things to do? Does having students complete assignments at different times create embarrassment for students who haven't finished and boredom for students who are done with their work? If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, you're not alone. 

My middle school students have loved using an early finisher choice task board in ELA class to challenge and extend their writing, reading, handwriting, vocabulary, and spelling skills. If you're seeking a classroom management solution for students who finish their work early, here's my advice for setting up your choice board. 

Print off and cut out fun choice board prompts

I created this set of ELA choice board prompts for 6th - 8th grade students. This printable PDF template includes 22 fun and self-directed challenges that will keep students engaged as their peers are working on other class assignments. It also has a sign that says, "I'm finished! English Choice Board" 

Pick a space to hang up the choice board pieces 

I personally love using a classroom corkboard to hang up the choice board pieces. The bright colored design pops out in the classroom, helping create a welcoming environment. 

If you have access to a laminator machine, I recommend laminating the choice board cards to ensure that you can use them year after year! 

Give students a completion chart to track which prompts they've completed 

Print out this PDF file and distribute one copy to each student. The chart includes activity titles, space to write the activity completion date, and a section for the teacher to write a signature that validates the activity completion. Students can glue the challenge sheet into their English notebook and update it throughout the year.

Offer prizes to students who successfully fill out their early finisher completion chart

Incentivize your students to use the early finisher ELA choice board by offering some type of reward for their work. Prize ideas include fidget toys, snacks, books, certificates, extra recess, homework passes, music listening privileges, positive phone calls home, and more! 

Have you used an ELA choice board for early finishers? What tips do you have for implementing it successfully in your class. Leave a comment to share your ideas!