- 1). Survey your classroom. Walk around the room and analyze it from different angles. Sit in a couple of the desks to see things from the students' perspective. Consider what you will be teaching and what is the best way to assist your students through visual aids.
- 2). Cover the outside of your classroom door. Use bulletin board paper to cover the entire door and use it as an extra bulletin board. Post brain teasers and interesting facts related to your subject. The goal is to make your students curious about what's on the other side of the door.
- 3). Move to the inside of the room. Begin with the walls. Hang posters around the room that will enhance your lessons. If you teach English, hang posters about grammar and punctuation. You can also hang your students' artwork or good grades. It makes them excited about looking around the room and proud to see their work on display.
- 4). Cover the bulletin board with bright paper. Staple border around the edges of the board to create a frame. Post classroom information on the bulletin board, such as upcoming assignments, the school calendar, special announcements and community events that relate to your subject. Assist the families in continuing learning outside of school.
- 5). Move your desk to the back of the room. This communicates that students come first in your class. It also allows for easier classroom management, as you have a better view of the students than they have you.
- 6). Arrange the desks around the room or arrange them in small groups. Remove excess furniture to decrease clutter and improve mobility. Assess whether or not the students can easily get to the pencil sharpener, bookshelves and your desk. Determine if the floor plan encourages discussion and interaction. You want the classroom to feel like a learning community, where students can openly and comfortably meet challenges.
- 7). Create a reading corner. Lay down a colorful rug and some large soft pillows. Line the windowsills with small living plants. It makes the room feel more comforting. Move two small bookcases to the corner and place varying levels of books on the shelves. Choose books that students can use as resources for your class and that students can read for entertainment during down time. This gives students who complete their work early an alternative activity.
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