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3 minute timer

A short class transition, such as packing up before the bell, fits in three minutes. Students see the pie from their seats and know how long they have.

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3:00

Timer length
Pie color

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Time a transition

Three minutes covers packing a bag and lining up at the door, and it is short enough that nobody starts something new. Put the timer on the board and say what must be done before the pie is empty. At home, three minutes fits a cup of black tea or one plank set.

A three-minute pack-up

  1. Say what must happen: bags packed, chairs pushed in, and everyone at the door.
  2. Start the pie on the board as you finish the instruction.
  3. When half the pie is gone, say what should be done by now.
  4. When the pie is empty, check the room before anyone leaves.

What fits in 3 minutes

In the classroom

  • Handing out and collecting papers
  • Lining up for lunch or recess
  • A timed reading sprint

At home and at work

  • Wiping down the bathroom sink
  • A wall-sit set
  • Letting a pan heat up

Try this

Start the pie as you announce the transition, so the countdown and the instruction arrive together.

The Hourpie app keeps a 3 minute timer on your lock screen.See the app

3 minute timer questions

How do I start a 3 minute timer?

Press Start. This page opens with the pie set to 3 minutes. When time is up, the timer plays three soft tones and counts the time over.

Can I show it to a class or change the length?

Yes. For a class, turn on Projector colors and press Full screen. To change the length, tap another length under the pie, or drag around the pie to set any time from 1 to 180 minutes.

How long should a classroom transition take?

A short transition such as packing up or lining up usually fits in two to three minutes. A visible timer shows students how much of that time is left.

What can you do in 3 minutes?

Pack up a classroom, brew a cup of black tea, or hold a plank. Pick one and start the pie.