Creating a Positive and Successful Physical Environment

Arranging and organizing the physical space so all students can see, hear, move freely, and engage to maximize their learning and allow for active supervision.

PBIS - Physical Environment Overview

Rationale

Engagement and on-task behaviors increase
Distractions and congestion are minimized
Increases perception of safety
Supports a respect of others’ personal space
Allows for teacher movement (Active Supervision)

HOW TO ARRANGE A CLASSROOM

CLASS-WIDE:
- Define spaces
- Organize storage
- Reduce clutter
- Ensure common materials are easily accessible
Whole group:
- Arrange seating so all students can engage
- Utilize active supervision
Small group:
- Arrange seating so all students can participate
- Limit distractions

Desks in Rows

Whole group instruction; Assessments; Attention toward one instructional location

Desks in Circle/U-Shape

Encourages discussion & participation

Desks in Clusters

Small group and cooperative learning

Physical Environment Checklist

Furniture is arranged to allow for easy student movement
All students are seated in areas that allow for them to see instruction
Students have personal space to place belongings
Materials in the classroom are easily accessed by all students
Distractions (visual, tangible, and auditory) are minimized
Rules/expectations are posted and easy to see for all students
Rules/expectations are positively stated and action oriented
Daily/class schedule is posted and reviewed

Strategies to Try

Walk between desks/rows to ensure ability to easily move through classroom
Sit in every student desk-can you see, hear and be engaged in instruction?
Remove excess materials in classroom, reduce clutter
Draw/map out classroom arrangement
Ensure posted materials are current and used for instructional purposes
Ask a coach or colleague to observe and give feedback
Observe a colleague’s classroom and reflect on practice

Snapshot 1 - Physical Environment 4-15-19 (1).pdf

Arranging-the-Classroom.pdf

Connection to Professional Standards

Core Proposition 1: Teachers are committed to students and their learning.
- Standard 1.3-Classroom Climate-The teacher creates a respectful environment that provides opportunities for equitable participation and supports students in developing positive dispositions towards learning.
Core Proposition 3: Teachers are responsible for managing and monitoring student learning.
- Standard 3.1-Managing Classroom Routines and Expectations-The teacher establishes an organized and efficient learning environment that involves and engages all students maximizes learning time, and enhances student learning in a variety of individual and group settings.
Core Proposition 5: Teachers are members of learning communities.
- Standard 5.4-Professionalism-The teacher considers his/her professional ethics in interactions with students, colleagues, primary caregivers, and the public and presents himself/herself in a professional manner that reflects the district's high standards of ethics and excellence.

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