Chapter Three- Part Two- The Physical Environment

The physical environment sends strong messages to your students the minute they walk into your classroom. The authors suggest that your classroom should convey these positive messages:

• This is a safe and comfortable place.
• I belong here and I am valued.
• I can make friends and share.
• I know what I'm expected to do.
• I can do interesting work here.
• I can find what I need and return materials where they belong.
• I can make choices.

So, let's take a look at your classroom!

Meeting Area- We want to start with the meeting area because it will occupy a well-defined place in your room. You will need enough floor space to accommodate all of your students. You can define the space with a rug, carpet squares, or benches. Include any displays you will refer to such as your calendar, schedule, morning message, ...

Furniture and Tables- To encourage collaborative learning, tables are preferable to desks. But you can still group desks for 4-6 children. You should try to separate noisier areas from quieter ones. Make sure that you can see all areas of the room without obstruction.

Supplies and Materials- Materials should be accessible and well-labeled to encourage students to use them independently.

Display Space- Displays should reflect children's work and thinking as well as the diverse cultures and backgrounds of the children in the class. Display books on various subjects.

Personal Belongings and Work- Keep in mind when and where the students will need access to their belongings.

The authors remind us that children learn best when they can explore and investigate objects, events, and places. So, you should also keep this in mind when setting up your classroom environment. These are some of their suggestions:

• Have an organized space for your library with good books from different genres. You may also want to place books in others areas of the room to convey that books are important.
• Supplies for writing and illustrating work should be included.
• Place math materials in one area to help students find them efficiently. Include collections of household objects for counting, estimating, and sorting. Manipulatives, games, and supplies for recording discoveries should also be included.
• When organizing science and social studies materials, be sure to have sufficient space for students to conduct explorations and display work.
• The authors suggest also including areas for art and construction, block building, cooking, music, dance, drama, and computer.

Last, it is important to consider children's physical needs as you plan the physical environment of your classroom. Bathrooms and drinking water should be available as needed. Consider making hard furniture more comfortable. Make accommodations for children with special needs. Offer places to be alone or to calm down when needed. And be sure to provide space and time for large motor movement.