Welcome!
Welcome!
Welcome!
We are so glad that you have joined #G2Great tonight as we discuss our role in creating a Classroom Design that will focus on the literacy work that matters.
I’m actually chatting from a hotel room in Lebanon MO and so excited to work with wonderful Ts tomorrow. But right now I’m just so excited to be with our #G2Great friends!
Hi friends. I love that this topic is custom made for It’s All About the Books. Classroom design isn’t classroom design without a FLOOD of books! #G2Great
Hi friends. I love that this topic is custom made for It’s All About the Books. Classroom design isn’t classroom design without a FLOOD of books! #G2Great
A1. Just as we can increase learning through our relationships with students, so can we increase learning by the design of our classroom. Inviting Ss to be a part of the design process is the first step. Where to work, where to sit, where to read, store materials!
#G2Great
#LitBankStreet friends I’m sorry that I couldn’t be here in real time and had to rely on PRETWEETS due to travel. I am so inspired by all of you and would love for you to join us on #G2great tonight or any week you can!
Hi friends. I love that this topic is custom made for It’s All About the Books. Classroom design isn’t classroom design without a FLOOD of books! #G2Great
A1: Oh this is a hard ?... among others, having flexible seating. This allows ss to be in charge of how they best concentrate, in a group, pair, alone or w/ a chair that rocks, etc. Also, classrooms that show where ss have been a part of set up process. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A1 We can step back, look around and imagine what it would be feel like to be a child in this room. Do you feel welcome? Does it beckon you to reading & writing? Does it feel safe? See your room through the eyes of a child. #G2Great
#g2great Great classroom design encourages many different kinds of work (collaborative, individual, pairs, whole group, etc) for different purposes. Kids need to be comfortable and welcomed.
#LitBankStreet friends I’m sorry that I couldn’t be here in real time and had to rely on PRETWEETS due to travel. I am so inspired by all of you and would love for you to join us on #G2great tonight or any week you can!
A1 My "why" has to do with agency. classroom design is directly linked bc a good plan takes a child's perspective. Who is the room designed for? #G2Great@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh
A1 The classroom design visually speaks to the students about who we are and what we expect of them and ourselves. If the design doesn't match the philosophy Ss may be confused about your expectations. #g2great
A1: classroom design until this year has always been a thorn. Torn between wanting to look great and be functional. Now I embrace simplicity and functionality in my room design. Kids are happy and we are surrounded by books. #G2Great
A1: Classroom design impacts student learning and shows what we value in our classroom. Students need to be a part of decisions on materials, organization, and seating options that work for them #G2Great
A1 Does everything have a purpose or is it about how it looks? Our classroom design, like our homes, should be functional so that it will serve our purpose rather than detract from it. Does yours? #G2Great
Hi friends. I love that this topic is custom made for It’s All About the Books. Classroom design isn’t classroom design without a FLOOD of books! #G2Great
I love that Lisa, because it really does go back to the idea that we value our kids so much that we take the time and effort and thought to create a classroom design for THEM #G2Great
A1: Classroom design impacts student learning and shows what we value in our classroom. Students need to be a part of decisions on materials, organization, and seating options that work for them #G2Great
A1: The design helps set the scene for community building. Students need to feel safe and valued before they can engage in other areas of learning #G2Great
#g2great When I returned to the classroom after 4 years of coaching, this was my main question. How will I use this? How will the kids use it? How will having x in the room impact learning? Helped me to keep my focus.
A1 my room is filled with books, students are in control of where to sit and what best works for them, and working on more flexible seating arrangements. #G2Great
Yes, I think that's the way. When you fill up the spaces you are going into this w/many preconceptions. Your walls should be as open as your mind. #G2Great@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh@brennanamy
In reply to
@mindi_r, @brennanamy, @DrMaryHoward, @franmcveigh, @DrMaryHoward, @franmcveigh, @brennanamy
They should be at the center of every decision we make. Without kids, none of what we do makes one lick of sense! Welcome friend.. always love seeing you here! #G2Great
A1 I think one of the biggest mistakes teachers make in classroom design is when it’s more about the teacher than kids. Let them take ownership of their own learning space. #G2Great
#LitBankStreet friends I’m sorry that I couldn’t be here in real time and had to rely on PRETWEETS due to travel. I am so inspired by all of you and would love for you to join us on #G2great tonight or any week you can!
Our kids need a voice in the classroom design. We need to ask, "Which parts of our classroom are working well for you and which parts are not?" This feedback is vital if we want the classroom to belong to our students #g2great
Hello #G2Great Friends! I’m Susan m, popping in late to see all your ideas! I haven’t designed a classroom space in a long time! I’ve worked out of verrrryyyy small spaces for a long time!!
I'm thinking a lot about letting our students decide how the classroom is setup...? If we want them to feel comfortable since it is THEIR space, shouldn't we let them anchor that? #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A1: Oh this is a hard ?... among others, having flexible seating. This allows ss to be in charge of how they best concentrate, in a group, pair, alone or w/ a chair that rocks, etc. Also, classrooms that show where ss have been a part of set up process. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
#g2great This is the first year I have not had assigned seating in 3rd grade. I LOVE it, and so do the kids. They get to make the choice of where to work for themselves. Some of them have different preferences for the different subjects.
A2: Children should be at the center of every decision we make. What will help their learning? What will make them feel like the classroom is theirs? What will make them feel included. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
#g2great I said this over and over to my student teacher last year. I told her to avoid TeacherInsta and pinterest, to keep the focus on her kids, not on coordinated chevron and neon colors.
Yes! Let's let our students decide how the classroom should look. it is their space after all, and we want to maximize their comfort and success! #LitBankStreet#G2great
A1 I think one of the biggest mistakes teachers make in classroom design is when it’s more about the teacher than kids. Let them take ownership of their own learning space. #G2Great
Our kids need a voice in the classroom design. We need to ask, "Which parts of our classroom are working well for you and which parts are not?" This feedback is vital if we want the classroom to belong to our students #g2great
I'm thinking a lot about letting our students decide how the classroom is setup...? If we want them to feel comfortable since it is THEIR space, shouldn't we let them anchor that? #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A1: Oh this is a hard ?... among others, having flexible seating. This allows ss to be in charge of how they best concentrate, in a group, pair, alone or w/ a chair that rocks, etc. Also, classrooms that show where ss have been a part of set up process. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A2. Value:
Access, Choice, Independence.
Increase success for all Ss when instruction, resources & curriculum is designed to promote these 3 core values for all students
#G2Great
A1 I like to keep my room practically blank in September and let the design unfold throughout the year based on my students' personalities and needs. #g2great
A1 my why: creating independent readers, writers, thinkers so our learning environment has to reflect that. Clearly identifiable reading/writing/thinking/creating spaces where Ss have tools/resources they need. #G2great
A2 Simple: Student Centered Instruction. My beliefs are embedded in Ss the classroom s/be a reflection of the community. Meaning, giving up some teacher choice in favor of theirs. #G2Great@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh
A2 It’s all about kids. It always has been all about kids. It always will be all about kids. Design isn’t about creating the space WE want but the space our children need to thrive in our classrooms. #G2Great
#g2great I said this over and over to my student teacher last year. I told her to avoid TeacherInsta and pinterest, to keep the focus on her kids, not on coordinated chevron and neon colors.
A2- My guiding belief is that no two of my classes are ever the same & so my class will never look the same from year to year. The walls should reflect my students-their passions & personalities. #G2Great
A2: We believe children learn through constructing knowledge - They need space and time to read, write, think and talk about their passions and ideas. Kids need choice about what they learn and how they demonstrate their learning
#g2great
A1: I am organized chaos. I love books. I love anchor charts ;). I think my classroom reflects that. I LOVE my flexible seating & soft lighting options. Had a T stop in my room today just to "take a break" for a moment. My ultimate goal is for it to be a safe place! #G2Great
A1 I like to keep my room practically blank in September and let the design unfold throughout the year based on my students' personalities and needs. #g2great
#g2great A2. My guiding question: What’s best for kids? My job is not about what’s easy or convenient for me. Instead, I keep the kids in the center and build from there.
#G2Great#LitBankStreet one of my strongest beliefs is in the power of young people. if we allow them to anchor the way we teach, we are bound to feel more success. ASK the kids questions...and ask them what they want! They will tell us!!!
A2: Students are the center of everything. So it isn’t about what makes my life easier, it’s about establishing an environment that works for them and allowing them the independence to chose what works and what doesn’t #G2Great
I'm thinking a lot about letting our students decide how the classroom is setup...? If we want them to feel comfortable since it is THEIR space, shouldn't we let them anchor that? #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A1: Oh this is a hard ?... among others, having flexible seating. This allows ss to be in charge of how they best concentrate, in a group, pair, alone or w/ a chair that rocks, etc. Also, classrooms that show where ss have been a part of set up process. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
I am driven by wanting to understand my Ss
I try to use empathy to understand them, and their perspective, from there I can create a welcome classroom for them.
#G2Great
Sometimes that’s hard for teachers to do. We like to do what we like. But if it’s about kids then we have a responsibility to loosen the reigns of control A LOT! #G2Great
A2 Simple: Student Centered Instruction. My beliefs are embedded in Ss the classroom s/be a reflection of the community. Meaning, giving up some teacher choice in favor of theirs. #G2Great@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh
A2 Our purpose within the lens of WHY is the guiding design force. We begin with what we value and then create a design to nurture those values. That makes BOOKS the very core of that design! #G2Great
#g2great Great classroom design encourages many different kinds of work (collaborative, individual, pairs, whole group, etc) for different purposes. Kids need to be comfortable and welcomed.
A2- My guiding belief is that no two of my classes are ever the same & so my class will never look the same from year to year. The walls should reflect my students-their passions & personalities. #G2Great
A1: Some design needs to fluid to match the needs and learning of the Ss while other parts are stagnant b/c they work and provide structure for the community.#g2great
A2 It’s not about “making pretty” it took me awhile to get there but now share it whenever I can. It’s about Sts needs, choice, functionalityfor them as well as us. It’s where the “our room” is loud and clear #g2great
A2 I believe classroom space should be more like a “studio” A reading/writing/creating studio that supports authentic work kid scholars engage in. #G2great
#g2great Comfort was one of my main reasons for getting rid of student desks. Tables offer more space for kids to stretch their legs, especially when I taught 7th grade. Seeing those tall kids crunched up in the one-piece desks pained me.
I’ve seen some very “pretty" classrooms that felt very sterile and were quite devoid of student voice and engagement. It’s not a contest - we’re dealing with little lives here! #G2Great
A2 It’s not about “making pretty” it took me awhile to get there but now share it whenever I can. It’s about Sts needs, choice, functionalityfor them as well as us. It’s where the “our room” is loud and clear #g2great
A2 Our design must begin with ACCESS. Access to books (w/time to savor them), access to writing materials/inspirations (w/time to explore with them), access to peers (w/ time to engage in conversations with them). ACCESS! #G2Great
A2 I believe classroom space should be more like a “studio” A reading/writing/creating studio that supports authentic work kid scholars engage in. #G2great
A2 I believe classroom space should be more like a “studio” A reading/writing/creating studio that supports authentic work kid scholars engage in. #G2great
A1: The design helps set the scene for community building. Students need to feel safe and valued before they can engage in other areas of learning #G2Great
A3. Open display of resources / books / materials so Ss can help themselves, feel their own sense of self-worth & be empowered by "can do" mentality!
#G2Great
A2: I believe students must feel safe, secure, and connected before they can tackle authentic learning - I make every effort for our physical classroom space to feel as welcoming, inviting, and inspiring for Ss as possible. #g2great
It makes me smile every week when #G2Great begin trending on Twitter in the early stages of the chat. This speaks volumes about the dedication of teachers. We are so grateful for all of you! @franmcveigh@hayhurst3
A3 Space for kids to stretch out and grow on their own and in the company of others. Rows of desks w/little opportunity to explore, experience and engage thwarts rather than celebrates these features. #G2Great
A3- Most essential design consideration: variety of spaces to meet sudent needs. Brightly lit/softly lit spaces; room to stretch out/curl up; desks for independent work, round tables for collaboration. Let students discover what works best for them. #G2Great
A2: We think a lot about making space for students to talk - We even want Ss to see each other during whole class lesson.When Ss sit in a circle they can bounce ideas off one another. When students sit in rows, the conversations go back and forth between the T and the Ss.#g2great
A3 When children feel represented and valued in their learning spaces they have a sense of emotional attachment & ownership. The environment can do that when we make their work matter and use it as tools for others to learn from. #G2Great@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh
A3: Decolonizing the classroom! In terms of having books written by diverse authors, books on diverse topics, student-designed work in the classroom and accessibility to combat ableist design. #G2Great
Went to the Ron Clark Academy this summer. If you haven't heard of this, look it up. 100% student focused classrooms, school, routines, and school. #EDUC5359#G2Great
A3- Most essential design consideration: variety of spaces to meet sudent needs. Brightly lit/softly lit spaces; room to stretch out/curl up; desks for independent work, round tables for collaboration. Let students discover what works best for them. #G2Great
#g2great Our literacy block is officially called “Literacy Studio” (thanks @EllinKeene) to promote that practice of deep engagement in learning similar to the deep engagement of artists in their work. It’s amazing how this shift in language shifted my thinking and planning.
A3: sensory students. This odd desire to win Pinterest awards at the cost of some of our students ability to focus is something I struggle to understand. Our work needs to be purposeful and so does our environment. Clip art does not equal engaged learning. #g2great
A3 I feel that classroom design needs to facilitate inclusion and collaboration. There is no worse feeling for a student (or anyone!) than to feel isolated in their work. #g2great
A2 It’s all about kids. It always has been all about kids. It always will be all about kids. Design isn’t about creating the space WE want but the space our children need to thrive in our classrooms. #G2Great
It makes me smile every week when #G2Great begin trending on Twitter in the early stages of the chat. This speaks volumes about the dedication of teachers. We are so grateful for all of you! @franmcveigh@hayhurst3
#G2Great#LitBankStreet accessiblity, colors, lighting that feels cozy, tables where multiple people can sit, tons and tons of books that students can have access too, areas where students can choose to work or read throughout the day...let kids CHOOSE what works for them!
A3: I think a safe and comfortable space is essential! Also relates back to why I think kids should have a hand in creating their space- it helps them to feel that they belong. #LitBankStreet#G2Great
A3: sensory students. This odd desire to win Pinterest awards at the cost of some of our students ability to focus is something I struggle to understand. Our work needs to be purposeful and so does our environment. Clip art does not equal engaged learning. #g2great
A3: sensory students. This odd desire to win Pinterest awards at the cost of some of our students ability to focus is something I struggle to understand. Our work needs to be purposeful and so does our environment. Clip art does not equal engaged learning. #g2great
#g2great Part of my classroom design is thinking about the interactions that will happen among students. How will I foster a community where students feel safe to be vulnerable and open as learners. If kids don’t feel safe, learning is hindered.
A3 We need classroom design where collaboration and conversation are the heart and soul of all we do. Temporary teacher created and student initiated small groups are central to this design. #G2Great
A3: Decolonizing the classroom! In terms of having books written by diverse authors, books on diverse topics, student-designed work in the classroom and accessibility to combat ableist design. #G2Great
A3: Are there enough choices in seating, materials, and books to meet all student wants/needs? Can students easily collaborate, explore, and find what they need? #G2Great
A3: I'm reading wonderful answers already, and I think the common thread is we need to provide choice for Ss so they can be successful. SN: for me, I need clear aisles & access to every spot so I can stand/sit/kneel beside each S. #G2Great
A3 Classroom design should create safe spaces where respectful interactions promote emotional AND instructional well-being. This design-mindset merger is critical to our success and theirs. #G2Great
Agreed @mrbgilson! Yes, that goes double for hallway displays. When it all looks the same we're in trouble. #G2Great It's not an assembly line that's the wrong era.
#G2Great#LitBankStreet I'm wondering how we engage those students who prefer independent work, when collaboration and small group work seems to be a really important part of building classroom community. How do we use the space to engage those students?
A3 We need classroom design where collaboration and conversation are the heart and soul of all we do. Temporary teacher created and student initiated small groups are central to this design. #G2Great
A3: Variety and choice. Not everyone can do their best learning in an uncomfortable desk chair. Some kids need to sprawl out, stand to work, etc. It’s about what each kid needs, which requires teacher flexibility. #G2Great
#g2great I have privacy shields that students can put up when they want to work without interruption. We even talked about how it’s okay to be “closed for business” to other kids when someone REALLY wanted to focus on an intense piece of reading or writing and how to express.
A4. Pernille's quote means that "old thinking" does not align with changing classroom design and calling it "good enough"! Ss need choice, voice, & opportunities to grow and learn!
#G2Great
#g2great I have privacy shields that students can put up when they want to work without interruption. We even talked about how it’s okay to be “closed for business” to other kids when someone REALLY wanted to focus on an intense piece of reading or writing and how to express.
#G2Great A3: I totally agree, I believe that students need to see themselves reflected all throughout the class room, whether thats through posters, books, etc.
A4 It’s not about buying cute furniture advertised on twitter. It’s about how that furniture will further the experiences that you want children to have. Thoughtful. Responsive. Design. #G2Great
#g2great I have privacy shields that students can put up when they want to work without interruption. We even talked about how it’s okay to be “closed for business” to other kids when someone REALLY wanted to focus on an intense piece of reading or writing and how to express.
I was also wondering how to honor those students’ need to have some time without always needing to be collaborating. Sometimes individual reflection is good to foster as well. #g2great
#G2Great#LitBankStreet I'm wondering how we engage those students who prefer independent work, when collaboration and small group work seems to be a really important part of building classroom community. How do we use the space to engage those students?
A3 We need classroom design where collaboration and conversation are the heart and soul of all we do. Temporary teacher created and student initiated small groups are central to this design. #G2Great
A4:If Ss spend most of their day trying to read our minds to figure out the “correct interpretation” then giving them a choice of a seat doesn’t matter. Let’s show kids that they are in charge of interpreting & that we welcome varied opinions, and encourage debate.
#g2great
Can’t remember where I saw it, but, “pretty, Pinterest, is not pedagogy!” Those rooms often lack creativity, and diversity, and uniqueness, how can our kids grow if all their work looks the same? (Pretty or not!) and let’s face it... books make a classroom pretty!
A4- To me, it means trusting students to own their own learning. It's not dictating 'Today is your day for the exercise ball' - and going along with the latest trend. It's recognizing that Ss learn differently from one another and our space should reflect that #G2Great
A3: Our rug area - we have morning meetings, daily opportunities for Ss to share their latest writing/reading experiences, class dance celebrations, read alouds/discussion, and SO many other great class events happen throughout the day at our classroom rug spot! #G2Great
#g2great A4 When I think about being flexible in my thinking, that includes being open to the ideas students have about our space and our learning. I have to be willing to change to meet their needs.
I was also wondering how to honor those students’ need to have some time without always needing to be collaborating. Sometimes individual reflection is good to foster as well. #g2great
#G2Great#LitBankStreet I'm wondering how we engage those students who prefer independent work, when collaboration and small group work seems to be a really important part of building classroom community. How do we use the space to engage those students?
A3 We need classroom design where collaboration and conversation are the heart and soul of all we do. Temporary teacher created and student initiated small groups are central to this design. #G2Great
SO true! And so important to teach students how to better understand their behavior/feelings/emotions instead of making them feel guilty or "bad" #G2Great#LitBankStreet
I appreciate everyone sharing pictures as I will share them with my oreservice teachers when we discuss flexible seating and classroom design! #g2great In fact, I’ll share this whole chat!
Yes and that’s also a life skill. We have to consider the varied personalities in our classroom and find ways of reach them all! (and hi friend) #G2Great
I was also wondering how to honor those students’ need to have some time without always needing to be collaborating. Sometimes individual reflection is good to foster as well. #g2great
#G2Great#LitBankStreet I'm wondering how we engage those students who prefer independent work, when collaboration and small group work seems to be a really important part of building classroom community. How do we use the space to engage those students?
A3 We need classroom design where collaboration and conversation are the heart and soul of all we do. Temporary teacher created and student initiated small groups are central to this design. #G2Great
#g2great A4 When I think about being flexible in my thinking, that includes being open to the ideas students have about our space and our learning. I have to be willing to change to meet their needs.
A4: @pernilleripp is so wise. All the set up in the world won't help if we don't value and lift up each child's way of thinking. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A4 It means there s/be a purpose for how children gather and there needs to be a sense of shared ownership for decision making. Allowing children to do things like select their own partners gives them greater control of learning. . #G2Great@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh
As do I! It gives the students agency over their feelings while at the same time letting them know it's ok to feel this way. Community is about accepting our differences as well as working together. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
With younger Sts so important to let them know their choice matters. Not every activity is based on collaborative work. Interestingly enough empowering them to choos, they often observe others before deciding whether to join or not. #g2great We give everything time
#g2great The idea came to me when a student mentioned during our reflection time that she couldn’t get into her writing because other kids kept asking for her opinion and input and for spelling help. We talked about how sometimes, you just need a way to tell others “not now”.
As do I! It gives the students agency over their feelings while at the same time letting them know it's ok to feel this way. Community is about accepting our differences as well as working together. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A4: We can spend more time asking Ss about what they need in the environment to learn best. If they make some choices it gives them opportunities to reflect and learn more about themselves. #g2great
A4 We don’t start with the THING but with what we want to bring to life in the confines of our learning spaces. Once we know what THAT is, then we can bring the furniture in to make those things happen. #G2Great
Yes! We come together every day during first few weeks to speak about which spot we chose to read/write in: how did that work for you? Where will you try tomorrow? What did you like/not like about it? #G2Great
You should be Pam. And I heard you say “it’s not perfect” but it shouldn’t be. You don’t need a showroom… you need a “HEART” room where you create a joyful space for learning. I love it #G2Great
A4: Using active listening - leaning in, listening in, joining in - in order to catch the connected threads that come with flexible thinking. If we talk too much, we may miss really important stuff. #G2GREAT
A4 We need to allow Ss to have a safe space to share out in whatever context, bringing with them their background & experience. We as teachers need to check our own preconceived notions to allow this. We need to ask more questions before saying yes or no to a thought #g2great
In reply to
@DrMaryHoward, @franmcveigh, @hayhurst3, @brennanamy
A4: You can have as many options for seating as you want, but if you don’t relinquish control and allow students decide what works for them, it’s not being flexible. Allow students to problem and try different ways of reaching their goals #G2Great
A4 It’s great to add flexible seating that promotes collaborative conversations but you have to actually make room in every day for those conversations. Change doesn’t happen just because you buy something – it resides WITHIN us! #G2Great
A4: you have to walk the walk. Sometimes we get caught up in the latest buzzword w/o really understanding it. Flexibility in thinking means being open to new or better practices that benefit kids, not just so you can say you’re doing them. #G2Great
A4: Using active listening - leaning in, listening in, joining in - in order to catch the connected threads that come with flexible thinking. If we talk too much, we may miss really important stuff. #G2GREAT
A5. In PD, always make sure Ts have needed resources. Not hunting for writing utensils, paper, or making a big deal about those who have none. Quietly handling. No shaming. No blaming. Move on.
#G2Great
#g2great A4: The design of choice is a philosophy, not an arrangement of furniture. We have to make thinking respected and real in our rooms. Kids deserve to have their voices valued.
A5 I would hope that a classroom library would be the central feature of every room. Access to beautiful texts + time to read them = VOLUME as our daily battle cry. #G2Great
A4: Using active listening - leaning in, listening in, joining in - in order to catch the connected threads that come with flexible thinking. If we talk too much, we may miss really important stuff. #G2GREAT
A4: I've said it before but I think it's super important to ask the students what THEY want out of the classroom. We can set up all we want, the way we want, but we won't make an impact if our students won't work well with what we provide!
#G2Great#LitBankStreet
#g2great A5. I”m most proud of my classroom library. When I moved from middle school to 3rd grade, I got to start almost from scratch. Up to over 1500 books now, all carefully chosen. What I’d change? I’d let go of more stuff, even though I’ve weeded it down to the basics.
A4 Asking Ss if the classroom is working for our purposes. If not, what can WE do together to make it better. Everyone thinking flexibly together. #G2GREAT
A4: I've already mentioned I love my flexible seating, but giving them the space options means little if they are still doing only worksheets in the comfy chairs! We hear student voices when they have choices! #G2Great
That’s so beautifully said Margaret. Yes we have to make sure that we’re doing for the right reasons and that ALWAYS comes back to kids (and hello friend) #G2Great
#g2great A4: The design of choice is a philosophy, not an arrangement of furniture. We have to make thinking respected and real in our rooms. Kids deserve to have their voices valued.
A5: I feel my books breath life into my office. (@bankstreetedu ) Once I had them set up, it is as if there is a magical swirl of words surrounding each meeting and each time I work. #G2Great#LitBankStreet Oh, and I wish my office were bigger so I could include more books!
A4 Flexible seating has become the new buzz word. Everyone is buying exercise balls, stools that rock, & chairs that lounge. If a T has and encourages flexible thinking then s/he can generate flexible seating with any kind of furniture. It's not about the chairs! #g2great
A5- I am most proud of my Ss writing looking back at me from the walls. They see more of their own than they do mine. One change would be an outdoor extension to our classroom- I would love to take more of our learning outside. #G2Great
A5: Most proud of the organization/accessibility of the space to all students. I'd like to challenge myself to have more student work and student created labels around my classroom #LitBankStreet#g2great
A5: I feel my books breath life into my office. (@bankstreetedu ) Once I had them set up, it is as if there is a magical swirl of words surrounding each meeting and each time I work. #G2Great#LitBankStreet Oh, and I wish my office were bigger so I could include more books!
I so agree @thisisjanewahoo ! And I think it helps make students feel a better sense of belonging and ownership over their classroom! #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A4: I've said it before but I think it's super important to ask the students what THEY want out of the classroom. We can set up all we want, the way we want, but we won't make an impact if our students won't work well with what we provide!
#G2Great#LitBankStreet
A5 I think we need to ask question one regularly and then respond with question two. Our classroom design is a work in progress and so we have to make design adjustments regularly to meet the needs of the children we have NOW. #G2Great
A5: Many teachers we know are letting kids organize the classroom library and it is changing who "owns" the classroom library. Look at these labels the kids made https://t.co/QFhDkKncgk#g2great
A5: I like the open spaces to work and shelving for my library. Would love to ditch my desks and use tables or something else, but that aspect is out of my control. #G2Great
I’ve seen that but I always wonder if there’s any kind of fire hazard. It looks totally cool but was confused about that since the lights get so hot #G2Great
Thank you, @DrMaryHoward!!! The room starts and ends in pretty good shape, but those hours in between...well, the creative process is messy, right? #G2Great
A5: Many teachers we know are letting kids organize the classroom library and it is changing who "owns" the classroom library. Look at these labels the kids made https://t.co/QFhDkKncgk#g2great
A5: I feel my books breath life into my office. (@bankstreetedu ) Once I had them set up, it is as if there is a magical swirl of words surrounding each meeting and each time I work. #G2Great#LitBankStreet Oh, and I wish my office were bigger so I could include more books!
A5: I am proud of how colorful my space is. Color feels inviting. I would like to change or ADD furniture. I want a TON of amazing furniture in my future classroom. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A5 It’s so important to remember that the classroom design for our children THIS year will not work for the children we have NEXT year or the year after. Design must fit the children you have at that moment in time. #G2Great
#g2great A5: I am proud that I have made three small spaces feel inviting to my students. Even in an old computer lab, we've carved out a welcoming space. I wish I could teach all my students in one space. The reality of my itinerant position is frustrating at times.
A5: Creating a classroom library that reflects the interests and identities of my students as well as books that open doors into the lives of people/characters different from them #G2Great
A5 As an coach, one of my favorite things to do is stand at the classroom door with Ts and be the Ss. Walk the classroom, imagining how they will use each space - noting flow & comfort. Envision/observe how space is used, enhance as needed. #G2GREAT
A6. More smaller tables and chairs for classrooms with adjustable legs for height so classroom can have MORE configurations for collaboration. Easier to rearrange by the Ss when they need to. . . not when T does so
#G2great
A5 My #geniushour time. Moveable furniture made for flexible thinking. That we had that option so kinders could work, create and collaborate. Our classroom library (I left all my books when I retired) pride and joy!!
#g2great
A5: Many teachers we know are letting kids organize the classroom library and it is changing who "owns" the classroom library. Look at these labels the kids made https://t.co/QFhDkKncgk#g2great
A6 Wall to wall bookcases with every single tiny space filled to brimming. No seriously I’m not kidding. That would be a dream classroom for any teacher/child who believes volume is the mantra! #G2Great
A5 No longer have a classroom (literacy consultant now), but I was so proud of my library. Our room was bursting at the seams with books. We also had bus schedules, fast food menus, instructions for constructing toys and birdhouses, recipes for snacks. The kids loved it #g2great
#g2great Schoolwide design? More places throughout the school where groups of kids and/or teachers could gather to read, write, or discuss. Perhaps even across grade levels! Comfortable seating, nice lighting, maybe even bookshelves full of books, like a little free library.
From the photos you shared you may like to amend that that your "colorful and *organized* space." I was blown away not just by the colorful space but by efficiency. #G2Great
A6 Classroom design ought to be an extension of grade/needs/community of Ss so I think rather than "stuff" my wish w/be time for Ts to observe how their rooms work when Ss are in control of it. Time to reflect & discuss & plan. #G2Great@brennanamy@DrMaryHoward@franmcveigh
From the photos you shared you may like to amend that that your "colorful and *organized* space." I was blown away not just by the colorful space but by efficiency. #G2Great
A6 With unlimited funds I would make sure every classroom had $ for a reading space with student selected books in it every year. I'm a literacy specialist, after all! 🤣#g2great
We love that label too. If you ask kids - If there was a basket in the classroom library just for you, what would it say, we get some pretty amazing answers. #g2great
#g2great I would also have a wall that is ALL whiteboard. My kids’ high school has put these in some classrooms to encourage collaboration. I would love to be able to have a place to make connections across subjects that STAYS up and can be added to.
A6: I'd LOVE to have sensory objects/spaces for students. So important for varied learning/developmental needs. And something I think all students can benefit from. #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A5 I was always a bright colored classroom person. Then a few years ago we looked across research and it pointed us into cottage colors (gray, yellow, blue). One dark wall, three lighter. It was fascinating how positively Ss reacted. #G2GREAT
We love that label too. If you ask kids - If there was a basket in the classroom library just for you, what would it say, we get some pretty amazing answers. #g2great
A6 One of my 1st grade teachers had the most ZEN classroom I’ve ever been in. As sense of calm washed over me every time I walked in the door. Lots of windows wide open, space to roam, soft lighting, student displays (no posters). Yes THAT! #G2Great
Yes and that’s why it’s so crucial to spend every second wisely. We can’t hand kids a worksheet and then complain that we didn’t have time for independent reading. We make choices and so we have to make the right ones. TICK TOCK TICK TOCK #G2Great
Q5: Proud of our wall devoted to Ss- it has Ss pictures/DNA (Dreams Needs Abilities), character words for each S, puzzle pieces we designed to look like us that “fit” together, mission stmt, etc. I would like to change lighting and ALWAYS looking to improve the library! #G2GREAT
#g2great I currently have 3 beige walls and one avocado one. The cabinetry for my sink is burnt orange. My carpet is all three. My school was renovated 6 years ago… not the 1970s. #ugh
In reply to
@edu_ksSkukalek, @DrMaryHoward, @franmcveigh, @hayhurst3, @brennanamy
A6 Puzzle tables, maker spaces everywhere, small group meeting spaces in larger hallways, hallways with cork walls so that process walls emerge everywhere. #G2GREAT
#G2Great#LitBankStreet A6: comfortable, sleek furniture that is inviting for students and BOOKS! BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS! Unlimited amounts of reading materials for students.
Q5: Proud of our wall devoted to Ss- it has Ss pictures/DNA (Dreams Needs Abilities), character words for each S, puzzle pieces we designed to look like us that “fit” together, mission stmt, etc. I would like to change lighting and ALWAYS looking to improve the library! #G2GREAT
A6: Ok, so I would make each classroom have areas for books all over the room. (and increase the allotment for books as part of the design!) #G2Great#LitBankStreet
A6 The best light source is natural lighting. The worst is florescent bulbs. I’d want LOTS of big windows and full spectrum blubs in small carefully placed lamps. And I’d put my writing space in front of a big window to inspire creative wondering. #G2Great
A7. Continue to model conferring by going to the S, pulling up beside, and chatting if they say "I can join them". Can't stand calling them back to a table that becomes "Fort Teacher Control Center"! (LOL)
#G2Great
One of my cooperating teachers makes sensory objects out of every day things! Example: A small sequin notebook left by a student last year, she cut the book in half and now it's a flat 4x4 sequin board to touch & play with
A7 We need to celebrate our “third teacher” and give it the attention it deserves. Our design can beckon kids to learning or turn them away. Be cognizant of the impact! #G2Great
#G2Great#LitBankStreet I want to focus more on student choice in terms of classroom design...I want to let my students tell me what they want from their classroom...this will only serve them for the rest of the year!
#g2great I also do this. Today I was down on the floor more than I was sitting at a table. And I always ask if I can interrupt before conferring. If a student says no, I respect that.
Sharing pics from before the students started- now we've shifted some furniture, added new labels to library and walls are covered with their artwork #G2Great
A5: I may not always hit the mark, but when I do I'm most proud that my room is peaceful. & I don't mean always quiet (it's downright loud & chaotic most days), but we are working to make it a safe place where those restless 6th graders can feel at ease & loved & safe. #G2great
Sharing pics from before the students started- now we've shifted some furniture, added new labels to library and walls are covered with their artwork #G2Great
Sharing pics from before the students started- now we've shifted some furniture, added new labels to library and walls are covered with their artwork #G2Great
A5: I may not always hit the mark, but when I do I'm most proud that my room is peaceful. & I don't mean always quiet (it's downright loud & chaotic most days), but we are working to make it a safe place where those restless 6th graders can feel at ease & loved & safe. #G2great
A7: I'd like to incorporate more student involvement in my classroom design and organization to give them a greater sense of ownership over the space and what they are learning in that space. #LitBankStreet#g2great
A7: I'd like to incorporate more student involvement in my classroom design and organization to give them a greater sense of ownership over the space and what they are learning in that space. #LitBankStreet#g2great
#g2great I am committed to continuing to increase student agency by giving them real choices in where and how they work and learn. My ultimate goal is engagement and independence. A tall order for 8 and 9 year olds, but they are COMPLETELY capable given the right conditions.
I must sign off right now but thank you for such a wonderful and illuminating chat. So much wisdom to parse through and and absorb! Goodnight to you all! 🌖💫 #G2Great
A7 I can’t wait to revisit our after the chat @Wakelet and take a closer looks at the wonderful ideas shared. Stay tuned #G2Great@www.wakelet.com/@DrMaryHoward
Sharing pics from before the students started- now we've shifted some furniture, added new labels to library and walls are covered with their artwork #G2Great
A6: Our Ss are constantly recording something nowadays ;) Flipgrid, Seesaw, GreenScreen - so more collaborative spaces (hallways/corners) to create their masterpieces! (Our school is under construction this year but we will have this in another yr or so!!!) #G2great
A7 We hope you’ll share photographs of your classroom design shifts during the week. We would love for your visual images to inspire our #G2Great family of educators, friends!
There's so much benefit to seeing other teachers in actions. I always pick up on small things that you think I would've thought of but didn't lol #g2great
In reply to
@hayhurst3, @brennanamy, @DrMaryHoward, @franmcveigh
Thanks for joining our conversation about Classroom Design as Part 2 of Maximizing Our Potential Focusing on the Literacy Work that Matters!
It is so much fun to learn
WITH
#G2Great friends.
Now that's a fabulous idea! My room was once history and there's some kind of map or screen (I honestly don't know) on my back wall....hmmm... It may need a paint job ;). #G2Great
#g2great Thanks, all! Time for me to go read some writing and then revise a piece that I started in front of my kids today. I leave inspired, as usual!
Oh, love the ideas of bus schedules! I have menus but never thought of the bus, and it's so relevant to my Ss where I teach. I'll have to check if they still have printed copies; I know our buses are going a lot of with their app now. #g2great
