A Classroom for Learning

After seven weeks of student teaching and blogging I figured it might be time to take a break from positing about lessons, students, art projects, or school happening and tell you about the actual classroom.

It is not a traditional classroom. But I like that. I love the setup of the classroom! However, it did take me some time to adjust and realize just how in love I am with the feel of the classroom. 

I say it’s not “traditional” as in there are no assigned tables or student name plates on the tables. The only “assigned” spot the students have is on the carpet. Students are to sit in their special spots at this time. This is where the majority of teaching takes place. 

A child size couch and saddle are favorites for carpet time. 

There are five areas where students sit to do table work; they are allowed to sit at any of these tables. Often times students rush to be able to sit in the classroom office. This could have something to do with the three chairs in this space being traditional office chairs.  

The classroom is designed to feel very homey. A framed family picture for each student can be found around the room. On each table, is a vase of flowers or plant

Each table also has its own basket of supplies - pencils, scissors, glue, markers, and crayons (as pictured above). 

Kindergartener sized seating can also be found around the classroom. Students use these areas during Daily 5, if students have free choice on their iPads, or when students are reading. 

A classroom library is filled with books and pillows. The books are sorted according to the topic or type of book they are (animal, math, ocean etc.). To help students put the books away in the correct place, a sticker is on the back of each book that matches the front of the tote it belongs in.

This is the kitchen area. During free time, this area is often filled to the max with kids. Some are doing art at the table while others play with the kitchen materials or sit on the couch and do something.  

The Walls

The classroom walls display mainly educational tools, as well as the class promise and student artwork. Boarders for the classroom walls are educational tools for the students. The front wall (by the carpet area) has the alphabet, and another wall displays numbers. 

Now you have a better idea of where I spend my days taking in all things kindergartener :)