Veronica Van Erem

ELM-250
4-07-2017
Instructor: Brandon Juarez

Classroom Environments: 4th Grade

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 A classroom is a very important place in which a teacher, and students engage together in

learning (Pinto, 2013). Therefore, creating a proper arrangement is essential to the success in a

classroom. This includes the placement of furniture, materials, and design elements. Student’s

should be able to move around comfortable, and interact with each other. As I designed the three

classrooms I thought about the classrooms I enter daily as a para-educator. Each classroom is so

different in design and layout but, all still provide a smooth even flow for the teacher and

students.

The first classroom layout I designed the desks in groups of four. So, students can work

in their individual groups, and collaborate together. I put a kidney table for small group

instruction with a para-educator for the students who need extra support. I incorporated a reading

nook area with soft chairs, and storage. Also, a computer desk area that is away from other

desks.

The second classroom layout I designed has four large rectangular desks. The desks are

evenly situated between each other with adequate space for students to move around. I put a

kidney table for small group instruction as did design one. I placed the students desk facing

students backs as this allows for full view of students at all times. I incorporated two computer

desks against the back wall and away from distractions. There is a reading nook area in front of

the teacher’s desk with sofa and two shelves on each side making it a relaxing spot but one the

teacher can see.

The third classroom layout I designed has six rectangular student desks, and a kidney

table for small group instruction as design one, and two have. Students desks are placed so all are

facing the front of the room. Including seating two students on each sides of the table. A circle

area is at the front of the tables for carpet discussions. An easel for the teacher during carpet
time. Up front in the right corner is a bean bag chair and shelves for quiet time. A computer is

next to that area too. Also, one is placed in back of the classroom. The teachers desk is facing the

front of all the student’s tables for a clear view of the classroom.

Each classroom I designed has a sink, a rug for carpet time, projector, kidney table, and

library/quiet time area. All of these areas I believe are essential in a classroom, and each can be

used for different reasons depending on the teacher. Design 1 is appropriate for grades 3rd-5th,

and designs 2 & 3 are appropriate for all grade levels K-5th. The student in the class profile that

is hard of hearing can sit up front in each design, and the four students with IEP’s can sit up front

or next too other students that are on a higher level so they can work and learn from each other.
 References

Faulk, J., & Evanshen, P. (2013). Linking the Primary Classroom Environment to Learning. YC:

Young Children, 68(4), 40-45.

https://lopes.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&

db=ehh&AN=91813399&site=ehost-live&scope=site

Pardee, M. (2005). Community Investment Collaborative for Kids Resource Guide. Retrieved

April 09, 2017, from http://www.lisc.org/

Pinto, L. (2013). From discipline to culturally responsive engagement: 45 classroom

management strategies. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press. ISBN-13: 9781452285214