21st Century ELL Classroom

I have been seeing new posts on websites about designing learning spaces for a better teaching and learning experience. Isn't it fascinating to witness this mindset shift from traditional and uncomfortable classrooms into efficient and to-the-purpose environments?

In my classroom, all the space is designed on the aspect of mobility. Whenever the tasks and activities change, the seating can be easily altered. Students usually work in groups in different stations. If I need to work one-on-one, I use the guided reading table for conferencing. The carpet area is used for whole group discussions and shared reading. We use this area more when we are working with digital tools on the interactive smartboard. The computer area is the research centre of the classroom, which is also used for differentiated instruction for gifted and special needs students. I prefer to have them closer to my table to give more guidance or support. On our bookshelves, we have the classroom library books and student folders with all the supplies.

For ELL students I have thematic units as a part of a big unit. That's why, all the exemplars, anchor charts and unit displays are on the thematic unit board. The word wall is full-on with the contextual vocabulary covered by that thematic unit. Writing Lab board displays the student samples with grammar-focused anchor charts to remind the rules to my students. We also have samples of our success criteria here.

Vietnamese culture is founded on celebrating the past and glorious deeds and achievements of the late kings and heroes. Nearly every month, as part of the curriculum, there is either Vietnamese or Canadian cultural teachings to be integrated into the thematic units we are covering in the ELL program. My students are always enthusiastic about sharing their culture with me, thus I use this initiative as a way to provide my students with a more inclusive, safe and caring space to boost their learning. The Cultural heritage board displays the student art and projects on that month's celebrations.

What does your classroom look like? Do you need some new ideas? Check this link for some outstanding 21st Century classroom ideas!