Classroom Design—Step 5: Student Work Spaces

Notes:
Janet is a K–1 intervention teacher. At times students come to her classroom for support, and at other times she works with them in their own rooms. Her classroom is the size of an office, yet she has carved out 20 different spaces where students can work.

• Notice the different options that are part of most classrooms.
• Listen to why Janet has chosen the options and how students use them creatively.
• See what options you already have and which ones you might want to incorporate into your own classroom.

• Janet says seating options are very important to the students and to the functioning of the classroom. The choices empower students and reduce behavior problems. What have you noticed in your own classroom about your seating options? Do your students have choices?
• Look around your room. Where would you want to sit for an extended period of time? Why would you want to sit there? How can this inform the seating options for your class?
• Ask your students where they are able to work successfully for extended periods of time and why that particular spot works for them.
• Think of one different seating option you might offer the students in your classroom and where you might find it. We have found treasures in the school’s storage area, gotten donations from parents, and repurposed things from home or garage sales. A little creativity can mean a big difference for students.