Providing Structure for your students:

“The key to a successful learning environment is structure.” Cara Carroll, The First Grade Parade

              Providing a structured classroom takes a lot of commitment from the teacher, but the benefits for both the students and teacher are well worth the time and work to provide that environment. A structured classroom translates to a safe place for students to thrive and learn. A structured classroom provides a place where students can focus on learning, personal and academic growth.

              Key components to structure are planning, preparation, and organization. Just like setting expectations, providing a structured environment should begin from day one. Students should understand the expectations and consequences as well; practice, model, and reflect with your students. Follow through, be a role model, and hold yourself to the same expectations and structure that you expect your students to follow. Practice what you preach!

              Planning and preparing should start before the students enter your classroom:

Think about the message you want your students to get when they first enter your classroom. What do you want them to think, to feel from the very first moment they walk through your classroom door?

Think about the supervision you need to provide for your students and the different activities you will do through the year. Does the organization of student desks and other areas of the room allow for you to supervise each student?

Think about how you want your students to respond to your teaching, to the activities you have planned, and to each other. Does the structure and organization of the room allow for all students to be engaged throughout the day?

Think about the routines and schedules that will be a part of the year. Are routines and schedules posted so students know what is expected of them and when?

Think about the transitions you and your students will be involved throughout the day. Does the setting of your classroom facilitate smooth transitions?

Think about the students you may have that are easily distracted. Is there anything in your classroom that will cause distractions for students?

Think, plan, prepare, organize, articulate, and provide structure so your students can thrive and be successful! Your job will be so much easier and rewarding with planning and structure in place.