MRS. GRAY’S CLASSROOM DESIGN Hanna Ealey March 1, 2016 Classroom Design 2 nd Grade

SECURITY AND SHELTER Both physical and psychological security for students should be considered when designing the classroom. There should be areas where students feel safe and comfortable while learning. Reading Corner  This corner allows students to relax and feel comfortable during independent reading time.  The reading rug is a place for students to sit when needing a quick break during the day.  Mrs. Gray encourages her students to take their time when cooling off and preparing for the rest of the day.

SOCIAL CONTACT The classroom should allow both students and the teacher to interact in a safe and comfortable way. Arranging desks in different ways can promote communication and create a more effective learning environment. Classroom Design  Mrs. Gray’s classroom is colorful and welcoming.  It is organized where students can walk around safely.  The desks are put together in groups to create a sense of security and to encourage students to communicate with one another.

SYMBOLIC IDENTIFICATION Using symbols in the classroom can motivate students to do well and serve as a reminder during lessons. Creating a positive way for a different student to share things about themselves each week creates a sense of community within the classroom. Starfish of the Week  Mrs. Gray chooses a different student each week to be the Starfish Of The Week.  This recognition allows students to feel special and gives them the opportunity to bring in a personal item to share with the class.  This creates social contact within the classroom while making students feel comfortable with their classmates.

TASK INSTRUMENTALITY Keeping a clean and organized classroom where students can find materials they need at any time is important to classroom management. Creating a task list or bulletin board where students can help out in the classroom provides a sense of responsibility within the classroom. Sea Side Helpers  Mrs. Gray has tasks for five students each week.  Students are randomly chosen and must assist Mrs. Gray with daily activities.  Tasks Include:  Messenger  Line Leader  Paper Passer  Assistant  Doors

PLEASURE An attractive and welcoming classroom creates a sense of pleasure for students. If the classroom displays students’ work and is attractive, it will likely encourage positivity and participation. Mrs. Gray’s Desk  Mrs. Gray has a semi-circle desk so that students feel comfortable coming up to her at any time.  This style desk also makes it easy for students to sit in groups with Mrs. Gray during the literacy block.  The windows with curtains behind Mrs. Gray’s desk gives students the opportunity to look outside for ideas during any type of lesson.

GROWTH Putting students in groups based on levels of learning provides the opportunity for growth. Allowing students to choose activities to work on areas where they need improving encourages choice and participation. The Daily Five Interactive Chart  The daily five is a literacy block that includes:  Reading to self  Reading to someone  Working on Words  Working on Writing  Listening to Reading  Mrs. Gray uses a pocket chart to allow students to choose which activity they feel they need to work on.  The groups are formed based on reading level and students can improve and change groups as they improve on their literacy skills.