Classroom organization is an important element in providing rich learning experiences for students. It focuses on the structural aspects of how a teacher arranges the classroom with the goal of creating a positive and organized atmosphere where learning happens. More specifically, classroom organization involves organizing a classroom in a way that will (1) promote consistency, safety, and positive behavior, (2) facilitate smooth transitions from one activity to the next, and (3) help students easily navigate the classroom and available resources.
Below are strategies that can help transform your classroom into a space where deep learning occurs every day.
Setting, Posting, & Communicating Clear Expectations
Setting and posting clear classroom expectations, rewards, and consequences is an important step in creating a positive learning environment. When clear expectations—both instructional and behavioral—are set, posted, and consistently communicated, on-task behaviors increase and students take responsibility for their learning and behavior. When implementing this strategy in the classroom, consider:
- Creating specific rewards and consequences and determining what that looks like for your students.
- Locating a space in the classroom that is visible for all students to review and track you as you reference expectations, rewards, and consequences.
- Reviewing expectations to make sure they are precise and understandable.
- Maintaining consistency in fairly applying rewards and consequences.
Remember—consistency is key!
Daily Board Configuration
A well-organized daily board can significantly enhance classroom efficiency. A daily board configuration might include the date, topic and lesson objectives, and daily tasks and expectations which will provide students with a clear purpose and steps for achieving academic success. In creating your daily board configuration, consider:
- Seeking guidance from your administration regarding board “must haves.”
- Choosing a space on the board that all students can easily see and read.
- Reviewing lesson objectives to ensure they are measurable and align with your lesson’s standards.
- Making sure your board is up-to-date at all times.
The big idea—provide a clear rationale and “road” for expected daily outcomes.
Strategic Seating Charts
Seating arrangements play an important role in maximizing instructional time and accessibility. Creating a strategic seating chart involves organizing desks, chairs, and other classroom furniture in a way that will support diverse learning needs. When developing a seating chart, consider:
- First reviewing your classroom space.
- Creating a desk/table arrangement that allows flexibility.
- Introducing the seating chart to students and communicating your “whys” for the arrangement (You care about and want to ensure student success!)
- Making adjustments as needed.
To summarize it all—strategic seating can greatly help maximize student learning!
Materials & Supplies Stations
Creating clearly labeled stations for supplies and materials can help in maximizing instructional time, streamlining transitions, and boosting classroom efficiency. Creating materials and supplies stations involves designating specific areas for daily materials and supplies. When creating these stations, consider:
- Designating areas for students and/or classroom managers to access daily materials and supplies.
- Clearly labeling and color-coding assignment and/or materials trays
- Pre-planning and determining which supplies are needed daily.
An important thing to keep in mind—stations must be organized and accessible.
Next Steps in Creating an Effective Learning Space
As you implement these classroom organization strategies, be sure to continuously reflect on their effectiveness and adjust as needed. In addition, make practicing and reinforcing expectations beyond the first days of school the norm, which will only make your classroom run smoother. Remember, the ultimate goal is to create a learning environment where deep learning happens every day and every student can achieve success.
To start your journey towards your ideal classroom, download the Classroom Organization one-pager here.
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LaChardra “Chardra” McBride is a native Houstonian residing in Atascocita, Texas. She served as a social studies educator in grades 6-8 for a combined eight years, a district-level teacher development specialist for four years, and two years as a curriculum specialist – all within the Houston Independent School District. Chardra is currently pursuing a doctorate in Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University and is one of three Partnership and Instruction Coordinators with Social Studies School Service.