Station rotation timer
Set how many groups and how long at each station. It times every round, calls the move, and shows each group where to go next.
Station names (optional)
4 rounds, about 43 minutes in all. Every group visits every station once.
Why teachers use it
In a carousel lesson the clock becomes the teacher's job, which takes you away from the group that needs you. This runs the whole sequence: the work time, the call to move, a short changeover, and the next round, for as many rounds as there are stations. Put it full screen and the class can see where they should be without asking.
Getting the timings right
- Work time is usually 8 to 15 minutes for primary groups and 10 to 20 for older students.
- A 1 minute changeover is enough for groups that have practised moving; start with 90 seconds for a new routine.
- Five or six stations is the usual limit before the lesson runs out of time. The board shows the total before you start.
For a single activity, the classroom timer gives you one big visual countdown instead.
More for the classroom
Questions
How does the rotation work?
Every group moves one station along each round, so after as many rounds as there are stations, every group has visited every station exactly once. The board always shows each group where it is and, during the changeover, where to go next.
What happens between rounds?
When a round ends, a sound plays and a changeover countdown starts, shown in amber with each group's next station. The next round then starts on its own. Choose No gap if you would rather move straight on.
Can I name the stations?
Yes. Type a name for each one, such as Reading corner or Maths games, and the board uses those names. Leave them blank to use Station 1, Station 2 and so on.
What if a group needs more time?
Pause at any point, or press Next to move everyone on early. Nothing else needs resetting.
Is it free?
Yes, with no account, no signup and no adverts. It runs in the browser on a classroom computer, smartboard, Chromebook or tablet.