What are used to replace empty time with activities or assignments when a group or individuals have finished their assigned tasks?

Sponge activities are specifically designed to fill up any empty time in the classroom effectively. These activities are quick, engaging, and can be implemented without needing extensive preparation or resources. They are particularly useful in situations where students finish their assigned work early or when there's a transition period between major activities. By keeping students occupied and focused during these moments, sponge activities help maintain a productive classroom environment and prevent downtime.

The term "sponge" itself implies that these activities soak up any leftover time and provide an opportunity for reinforcement or practice of skills already taught. Examples of sponge activities can include quick games, review questions, or creative prompts that allow students to engage with the material while reinforcing learning objectives.

Understanding the purpose and effectiveness of sponge activities can help educators better manage classroom dynamics and ensure that time is used efficiently, leading to continuous learning opportunities for students.