Factors to Consider when Planning Your Classroom
Positive Regard
Are there multiple ways students can share information with teachers about personal events,
regarding questions about curriculum, to offer suggestions about your instruction, etc.?
If there are two teachers, is there equal and respectful space assigned to each?
Door and Walls
Is it clearly marked? Is there an envelope, pad, pencil for messages?
Is there a student attention grabber?
Do class displays offer class information, instruction tips, entertainment?
Structure
Is the class schedule posted in picture/written form?
Are class expectations posted in picture/written form (with picture of students modeling the
expectations)?
Are leaning centers labeled?
Are student materials stored logically and labeled if in closed containers?
Furniture
Are desks and tables of appropriate size?
Does each student have an assigned seat/table area?
Is each student’s desk organized for easy access to materials?
Are desks/tables arranged so each student can see the teachers, presentation, chalkboard?
Are there at least two study carrels/dividers for students to work at in distraction-free space?
Areas of Classroom
Are there learning centers housing materials around concentrated topics (reference area, writing
area, math area, computer area)?
Is there individual storage?
Is there a borrowing center (where students can borrow books, calculators, etc.)?
Is furniture flexible and/or arranged for large and small group activities?
Is there a quiet area or break area for one student to go to at a time?
For younger children, is there some open space for large group movement activities?
Equipment and Materials
Is there a variety of light sources (to allow for bright and dimly lit areas)?
Are teacher materials stored behind closed doors and stored close to areas of use?
Comfort
Is there a known system for bathroom breaks?
Can students have water at their desks?
Is there a comfortable reading area?