Stephanie+C's+Classroom+Map



I really like Rief's idea of putting in a scrap piece of carpet or a rug in order to designate the reading area. This is a great way to symbolize to the students that it is a separate area and is intended to be quiet for those wanting to read. This is an open area in my classroom. Many classrooms that I have been in are always jam packed with desks for large classes and other items the teacher has put in the room. I think that it is important though to have an open area for students to sometimes work in, whether it be for a project, or for presentations. It helps the students feel like there is some space between them and everyone else in the class. From Rief's article I also picked up on the idea of having students sitting in groups and being able to face one another when working. This helps promote better sharing and group work and allows students to build confidence in the work that they are sharing with those sitting with them. If there is one thing that I have learned about a classroom, it is that where the teacher's desk is located is vital to classroom management. My CT's desk is at the back of the classroom, which while it allows her to watch her students from behind, she can not see if they are actually working. I think that having the desk at the front of the room is optimal to maintaining control of the class as well as seeing those who may need/require help. The idea of bookshelves I got from both my CT and Rief's article. Having a classroom library is extremely important in getting students to enjoy reading. By having books that don't have a due date or that are different than what the media center may have helps students enjoy the book more. If the teacher is also taking requests, as Rief suggests, the students feel like the teacher genuinely cares about their interests and become more excited about the prospect of reading. Technology use in the classroom is a big one for everybody. It is important to have a designated space for computer or technology use, but you don't want it to be a distraction to those who are not using it. This is why the computer area is located at the back of the classroom. Many classrooms that I have been in follow this same set up.
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