Classroom layout is key in making sure students have the appropriate space materials to take their learning to the next step. I decided to color code this floor plan in order to visually see what was going on. I included flexible seating which consisted of bean bags, yoga balls, stools, a small readers coach and regular classroom chairs. All of which is important because students should have the opportunity to step out of the comfort zone of always being in a regular classroom chair to something much more interesting in which students feel comfortable and therefore will perform better by doing so.
Next, the importance of well organized and appropriate centers around the classroom is key for reinforcement of prior knowledge as well as new knowledge. For example, I decided to place all the centers towards half of the room and against wall space. I believe that it is vital why centers needed to be placed somewhere they make sense. For example, the art center will get messy occasionally and it is close to the restroom gives students the opportunity to clean up and wash their hands as often as they may need to. The reading center was placed near the classroom library so that students can read and pick out even more books throughout the centers time. Finally, the writing center was placed near the center of the room in order to also implement an author’s chair for when students want to share their public papers with the class.
Furthermore, the placement of the technology and bulletin boards and decor around the classroom was placed according to where students could see it much better without necessarily needing to walk across the room to look for a letter or word. Therefore, the word wall bulletin board is near the teachers' desk in case students have another word we could add or need to use a word and see how it is spelled it is also convenient for them. Student's work is not only presented outside but also inside of the classroom to incorporate a family environment in the classroom and allow for all students to feel welcomed.
Finally, the small group and whole group meeting areas were placed near the front door in case students may get pulled-out during small groups or whole instruction it allows for faster flow during these transitions. Also, whole group is center around the Smart board and carpet area where we as a classroom meeting to discuss the activities and learning for the day. The small group is also placed near the Chromebook cart in case students need to use them during this time for an activity with the teacher.