How to Create an Effective Classroom Layout
Establish Positive Child Behavior from the First Day at School.
Apr 20, 2009
According to the article written by Kim Olver in 2006 titled "Choice Theory", behavior, good or bad, is the result of a child trying to fulfill a need. The "five basic needs"of all humans are:
- survival
- love and belonging
- power
- freedom
- fun
It's important to remember that not every child has these basic needs, or rights, met at home. As a teacher, it is essential to offer suggestions to assist parents to avoid inappropriate behavior in the home environment. This can be subtly done through regular newsletters home or by scheduling individual meetings with struggling parents.
However, in the situation where parents are evasive or avoid their responsibilities, it's often left solely to the school to meet the needs of the child. If teachers don't educate students on appropriate ways to meet needs, then students will portray negative behavior in an attempt to meet their needs alone.
Good Classroom Layout = Good Classroom Management
If a child arrives to a cold classroom environment, already the need for belonging is not being met. The physical classroom layout is the first step to helping child behavior in positive ways. Below are the more important points a teacher should consider:
Teacher's Desk
- Position it where you have easy access to the white board
- Located where you can observe the whole class
- Easy access to storage/ shelving
- Presented so that it is inviting to students
- Even though it is essential for teachers to have their own space, it is vital for teachers to spend most of their time "roaming" the class. This will reduce "off task" behavior but also gives you the opportunity to assist struggling students.
Students' Desks
- Rows – ensure the students' focus is on the teacher. Students have good visual of what's on the white board. It reduces "off task" talking, but this layout also limits the opportunity for productive group discussion and group work.
- Clusters – or small groupings of tables benefits group work and discussion. It's more distracting for students when they are doing individual work. Creates difficulties when teacher wants eye contact at the front of the class, as desks face in all directions.
- "U" or Horseshoe Shape – allows good eye contact with the front of the class and it cuts down on unwanted talking, but students also have good eye contact with each other to allow class discussions to take place effectively. However, a large classroom space is essential.
- Ensure you provide floor space for students. Use this space for class discussions, morning talk, quiet reading, teacher instructions, small games, etc. This space is a must.
- Know your new students by discussing them with their previous teachers. This will help you decide where to seat students on day one.
Books and Resources
- The main issue here is to ensure that scissors and other dangerous items are stored near to the teachers desk.
- Also keep books, games, colouring pencils and other items that may be a distraction for students well clear of their desks.
Classroom Displays
- Class rules and consequences should be prominent so that they can be referred to often and seen easily by students.
- Position rewards charts where they are easily seen.
- Daily timetables are beneficial. These ensure the students are prepared for the change of lessons. Positive behaviors occur when school is predictable and safe.
- It is important to create a warm environment with the displays you use. Ensure that the pictures, posters, etc. that you use target the age group of your class.
- Display and rotate students' work regularly. This helps them feel a sense of ownership and belonging in the classroom.
- Don't "overdisplay" the room. Hanging displays that blow in the wind look good, but they're a constant distraction.
Although this is just the first step to classroom management, it is vital. If a child feels welcome, safe and supported he will tend to work with, and learn from, the teacher. By making the effort, and with a little creativity, you can make a great start in building harmony within your classroom from the moment the students step foot in the door.
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