Classroom desk arrangements can be a tedious process for some and non-existent for others. Many veteran teachers feel that straight rows are the only way to go, while "newbie's" in the building feel that effective classroom arrangement should change up nearly every week.

While there is only personal preference to the matter, teachers may want to stop and think about why classroom desk set up is so important. Mainly for student success and learning to take place.

If the U-shape desk facing each other is too distracting, move students into smaller groups. If the rows and columns of the veteran teachers are creating more struggle for the struggling readers, feel free to try a new approach.

I have always found that small groups of three or four preferably four) students works best for my classroom. I try to match up 2 high students with 2 lower-achieving students so that proper modeling and support is evident. I also attempt to group together 2 of each gender so that all must participate. Of course, you will want to separate behavior problems as much as can be done - attempting to keep them facing in opposite directions of one another.

From that point, I even take it a step further by placing a red or blue dot in the corner with a number 1-4 on it. I then cover these dots with laminate paper. When this is in place, my students are able to quickly be able to be grouped into four groups (#1's together, #2's, etc), as well as by red or blue dots. In addition, by having a pod of four desks together, those students can form a group of four or two groups of two depending on the day and need.

I rarely allow the students to randomly choose a partner (social issues arise quickly from this tactic), and the management is much easier to get a handle of in day-to-day activities. Happy arranging!

How do you set up your student seating chart?  Stop by the Primary Grades Group to chat!