The appearance of a classroom is the first impression that parents and students receive. The physical classroom appearance sets the mood and the tone of the learning environment.
One concern of many new teachers is setting up their classrooms. Designing or arranging your classroom effectively and efficiently is very important. However, it can also be a tiresome and tedious task.
Due to overcrowding of students and limited space, setting up a workable area can be difficult. The layout and appearance of the classroom should reflect the teaching style and personality of the teacher. What is workable for one teacher is not necessarily workable for another. A teacher that prefers students working in groups will need to arrange tables or desk clusters for students. A teacher that carries out more whole group discussion will want a configuration where the teacher can be centered and seen by all students.
A classroom should also reflect the teacher on personal terms. Many teachers hang up pictures of their family and pets. They also may decorate the room with a favorite color, pattern, or interest.
Primary teachers often divide their classroom into different areas. For example there may be one area for reading and one area for music. In kindergarten, there is usually a central meeting area in addition to individual work areas.
A classroom should be inviting and warm. Bulletin boards and posters should decorate the walls. I prefer to use brightly colored fabric to cover boards rather than paper. The material offers more opportunities of variety and has richer color than board paper. Many teachers also change their decorations with the season and holidays.
The boundaries are endless when it comes to decorating and arranging your classroom. Do not be afraid to change your room arrangement several times before you find a design that is workable.
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