Zohra+Sadat

Student tables:

The classroom has five student tables. These tables are rectangular shapes, and it seats five students for each table. I chose this arrangement because I felt like it had that “dining room table” feel that Atwell mentions (p. 33). This arrangement encourages the “habit of reading” (p. 35). I like the idea of using tables because it allows for more collaborative learning and no student has their back to the teacher. It makes it easy for the teacher to see whether the students are on task.

Teacher’s desk:

My desk is in front of the class. I do not plan on spending all of my time behind my desk; I plan on walking around and engaging with the children. But while at my desk, I can see all my students and they can see me.

Library:

I feel that having a class library is ideal in a language arts classroom. Both Atwell and Rief feel that this is an important component within the classroom. In my layout, the library is somewhat in a private section, with bookshelves surrounding the area. Inside the little nook, is an area rug with bean bags. While reading the books, the kids can lounge on the bean bags. It’s important for the students to have a separate place for just reading, so they can be able to enjoy the reading process.

Working station:

Right Beside the library, there are a couple of computers for the students to work on for researching or publishing their writing pieces. They can go from the conference area, straight to the computers and vice-versa.

Student/Teacher Conferences: Rief points out that it’s a good idea to have a round table for one-on-one conferences (p. 23). This area could be for teacher-student conferences or even student-student conferences (for a little more privacy). This area is near the computer station for easy access.

Easel:

I have an easel in the front of the classroom. Atwell had mentioned using this tool, and I realize now that it is an effective one. It actually is more personable, because you (the teacher) are sitting with the kids and writing with them. I find that the students would be more engaged and focused with the easel.