Physical Layout of Classroom
This is how I would like to lay out my classroom. Although not pictured, and often not available in high school classrooms, a sink is very desirable. Windows for natural light are also high on the list. Students seem to have better attitudes and motivation to learn when in an attractive, welcoming classroom. Having a clean, well organized, beautiful space would positively affect me as well, so I will endeavor to create such an environment with whatever means feasible.
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Much of our class time will be spent doing work together as groups. As explained in the group learning page, most groups will be 4 students, so the desks are arranged in clusters of 4. ESL classes are smaller than other academic classes, so the 12 desks would usually be sufficient.
Between each cluster is a small shelving unit. The shelves will hold paper and reference books like an atlas, thesaurus, dictionaries, etc. On the top will be containers of supplies like colored pencils, rulers, pencil sharpeners, stapler, etc. The mirrors in the room represent large white boards. |
The computer in the front is connected to a projector that can project directly unto the whiteboard in front so that students can write on the whiteboard to label a map, fill in a graphic organizer, or similar things.
A computer with projector and a document camera would be the absolute minimum technology required in an ESL classroom. The need to provide context for everything in each lesson will require quick and easy access to maps, pictures, diagrams, video clips - anything to aid understanding beyond just words. The reading nook has a rug and plenty of big, colorful pillows (more interesting than the ones pictured in this model). A sofa or bean bag chairs provide seating as well. This area is available for certain group activities. Whenever someone is done all their work, they may go to the reading nook to read or work on other homework. This is also a gathering place for students before or after school certain days. |
Walls have some quick reference items, including some visible words or phrases in the first language of each student. A few decor items are arranged on the bookshelves. Bookshelves are full of interesting books to read, bilingual books and dictionaries, reference and nonfiction books.
The medium-tall bookshelf by the door has a binder on top in which students will sign in when they are late. In the shelves are the students' journals that they write in at the start of each class, as well as extra copies of assignments for any students who were absent, baskets for each period to turn in assignments, and similar "class housekeeping" items. |