How do you set up a classroom?
When you think about it, your classroom arrangement is probably one of the most important tasks that you will do at the beginning of the year. This is where everything will take place: learning, building relationships, sharing, etc. Your classroom is one of the very first impressions that you will make on your students. What kind of impact do you want it to portray?
Look at the entire space. What types of interactions will be occurring? Will you need a place for group gatherings? Keep in mind the flow of the room – is there room to move from one space to another without too much of a distraction. How will you arrange the student desks? Will you be utilizing centers? Don't forget to consider where and how you want your own space in the room.
Whatever you decide, know that there is no right way. It can be beneficial to walk through the building to check out how the “seasoned” teachers have set up their classroom. If you want more ideas, you can check out this resource: https://www.azk12.org/Homeroom-SettingUpYourClassroom
In a first grade class I definitely need carpet time and library space. I set those up first and then an area for small groups. Next I work on student and teacher space. Mine changes a little each year depending on my students.
When I am setting up my classroom, I think about how my students are going to use the space. I purposely have my students in groups of 3-4 so that they can interact with each other. I make sure to have a library space to encourage the importance of reading. I also like to have a writing area because many of my students need help with including punctuation and what a sentence should look like. I have a carpet area used for whole group discussion.
I’m a math interventionist so I make sure to have a ton of small group areas so that depending on what it is that we are doing, we have space to use manipulatives! When I was a classroom teacher, I always tried to have multiple work spaces for students as well. Collaboration is so powerful!
I think about groups initially that can be adapted later to personalities or abilities. Usually I don’t need to change the configuration much but the people within the groups change. I also think about access to materials and resources and access to one another. I have to also consider my easy access to each group.
This is always such a great question… And I will often ask my teacher candidates… How would you set up a classroom environment By thinking about it in two parts. The first part being a classroom in which you have all of the resources and furniture you could ever want or need. The second part would be to reimagine the space but with limited resources.
I love this question it reminds me of The "broken window theory" which suggests that small signs of disorder, like a broken window, can lead to larger issues and signal neglect, which may result in more disorder. Applied to classroom setup, this theory emphasizes the importance of maintaining a well-organized and orderly environment to promote positive behavior, community and learning.
I find when you think about classroom set up it also important to consider:
Attention to Detail: Ensure that every part of the classroom is tidy and well-maintained. Fix minor issues promptly, such as broken furniture or messy areas, to show that the space is cared for.
Consistent Cleanliness: How will you regularly clean and organize the classroom to create a welcoming environment. A neat space sets the tone for respect and responsibility.
Clear Expectations: Establish and maintain clear rules for how students should use and care for classroom materials and spaces. Reinforce these expectations consistently.
Positive Environment:Create an inviting and engaging atmosphere with vibrant displays, organized materials, and designated areas for different activities. This helps students feel comfortable and focused.
By maintaining an orderly classroom and addressing small issues promptly, you can prevent larger problems and create a positive, productive learning environment.
