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Reading Area
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_7644675.jpg)
Our classroom features a quiet and calming reading corner- a cozy place to relax and read to self or read to other. The carpet, pillows and couches help the area feel homey, while the nearby windows allow for lots of natural light.
The aquarium in the reading area provides a soothing water sound for the background, which helps students stay calm and focused. The aquarium is also used to inspire children’s conversations about growth, change, habitat and community.
Small book shelves provide storage for a range of texts, while also providing some separation between the reading area and the rest of the classroom. Usually one table group works in this center at a time, though students are always welcome to find a quiet space anywhere in the classroom.
The aquarium in the reading area provides a soothing water sound for the background, which helps students stay calm and focused. The aquarium is also used to inspire children’s conversations about growth, change, habitat and community.
Small book shelves provide storage for a range of texts, while also providing some separation between the reading area and the rest of the classroom. Usually one table group works in this center at a time, though students are always welcome to find a quiet space anywhere in the classroom.
Lesson Carpet
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_7896029.jpg)
The lesson area is located in the center of the classroom, visible and accessible from any location. Sometimes student will watch a lesson from their desks which are located right next to this space, and others the class sits on the carpet.
A portable white board is used on the carpet for quick lessons that do not require technology, or when the class is brainstorming ideas.
A comfortable chair is placed in this space for the speaker's use- this could be the teacher, a student or a special guest in the classroom.
A portable white board is used on the carpet for quick lessons that do not require technology, or when the class is brainstorming ideas.
A comfortable chair is placed in this space for the speaker's use- this could be the teacher, a student or a special guest in the classroom.
Breakout Desks
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_9280144.jpg)
Two breakout sessions are located next to the reading nook- a quiet area for students to go work when they need a space without distractions.
Previous classroom chart paper that was hung in the class (success criteria, information on text structures, class songs and poems, etc.) is photographed and placed in organized binders in these two breakout desks, allowing for easy access to information.
Each breakout desk includes personal lamps for extra light, a comfortable chair and writing supplies.
Previous classroom chart paper that was hung in the class (success criteria, information on text structures, class songs and poems, etc.) is photographed and placed in organized binders in these two breakout desks, allowing for easy access to information.
Each breakout desk includes personal lamps for extra light, a comfortable chair and writing supplies.
Conferencing Table
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_102258.jpg)
The conferencing table is used for a variety of teacher led small group activities such as one-on-one conferencing and guided reading.
The table is positioned so the teacher can observe the rest of the class, and the shape of the table allows for discussion, much like a circular table would.
Posted directly behind the conferencing table is one of the success criteria walls, which changes depending on the lesson focus. The guided reading rotations and four job card descriptions are always posted here for easy access.
The table is positioned so the teacher can observe the rest of the class, and the shape of the table allows for discussion, much like a circular table would.
Posted directly behind the conferencing table is one of the success criteria walls, which changes depending on the lesson focus. The guided reading rotations and four job card descriptions are always posted here for easy access.
Individual Student Desks
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_8651384.jpg)
Each student has his/ her own desk that they keep for the whole year, that holds their personal belongings. Since we have 22 students, 5 group clusters makes sense to allow for group work and small group discussions without having to transition.
Groupings are heterogeneous, though most of our students are at Stage 3 for literacy development, so reading groups do not have to make too many considerations.
The "fifth" students on the 2 left hand tables are Kara and Jack, close enough to the conferencing table that the teacher can support them if they need assistance.
Each student has their own personal laptop that they keep in a storage shelf, and can access whenever they need to.
Groupings are heterogeneous, though most of our students are at Stage 3 for literacy development, so reading groups do not have to make too many considerations.
The "fifth" students on the 2 left hand tables are Kara and Jack, close enough to the conferencing table that the teacher can support them if they need assistance.
Each student has their own personal laptop that they keep in a storage shelf, and can access whenever they need to.
Art Center
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_6606281.jpg)
Four Art easels are located near the window for students to use during the visual arts period, and when inspiration arises. The art area is located near the sink for easy clean-up, and next to a storage unit for art and writing materials.
Student Cubbies
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_2609583.jpg)
The students enter the classroom from the school hallway, and leave their personal belongings in their hall cubbies- only school related materials come into the classroom.
This allows the class to be clutter free.
This allows the class to be clutter free.
Class Bulletin Board
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_1363683.jpg)
In the hallway, the classroom bulletin board displays what is happening in the classroom. The teacher posts the classroom newsletter and the monthly calendar, but the students decide what else is posted for the school community to see. This could include pictures, student work, or dialogues between students during the learning process.
Storage Room
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_1050850.jpg)
A small separate storage room is located near our art center, holding extra materials and resources. The laptop computers are also stored in this room, providing extra security.
Class Garden
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_8813141.jpg)
A school garden is located alongside the school, so that each classroom backs onto greenery. This not only brings beauty from the outdoors into the classroom, but also supports the children’s discussions on habitat, community and growth. Our class helped to plant and maintain the garden.
Teacher's Desk & Storage
![Picture](/uploads/1/6/6/3/16633494/_9456324.jpg)
Though the teacher rarely sits at her desk, she still has a place to store her own personal belongings, and to work during prep. periods. Behind the desk is storage shelves with student files and assessments inaccessible to students during regular hours.