Setting up a classroom will aid in creating a general sense of order and care to create a positive climate for the teacher and student to excel. Below are the general principles to organizing the physical space of a classroom:

1. Designate certain areas for specific activities and communicate the behavioral expectations for each area

2. Students should be be in close proximity to the teacher

3. Face the teacher during instruction 

4. Students should be arranged to easily share answers with a partner

5. Materials for teacher and students should be easily accessible

6. Teacher should be able to easily monitor the responses of students and provide feedback

7. Teacher must be able to see all parts of the room and all students

8. Teacher should post materials on the wall that supports instruction

Purpose of Classroom Rules

• Promote Safety

• Create a Positive Learning Environment 

  • Teachers can Teach

  • Students can Learn

Suggestions

1. Have a few rules versus many

2. Rules should be in terms of desired behavior

3. Keep rules short and simple

4. Define certain desired behaviors

Rules should be presented the first day of class to all students. Following that day, rules should be formally and informally reviewed throughout the year with the frequency dependent on age and behaviors exhibited by students. What we expect = What we get

Routines and procedures in a classroom should be written down and created ahead of time for students. Below is a list of headings to assist in developing specific routines and procedures for a classroom with a couple of examples for each:

1. Movement:

   1. Into classroom

   2. Transition to a new activity

2. Use of:

   1. Bathroom

   2. Computers

3. Materials/Assignments:

   1. Having no pencil/pen

   2. Turning in work

4. Cues for:

   1. Attention

   2. Different levels of voice

5. Gaining Assistance:

   1. During a lesson

   2. During independent work when the teacher is available

6. How to Act:

   1. During whole-group instruction

   2. During independent seatwork

7. What to do When:

   1. You have been absent

   2. You don't understand the class material

Routines and procedures can be introduced when they are needed. The routine and procedure for going to the restroom would be something to go over day 1 while the routine and procedure for turning in work could be done the first time an assignment is assigned.