| No one says that keeping 30 nine year olds | | | | to traditional rows or "pods." The problem with |
| engaged in learning is simple, but as a school | | | | pods is that you are creating a situation where a |
| teacher, that's what you're expected to do... | | | | few students will always have their backs to you |
| among a whole host of other tasks that, at the | | | | even if you actively move about the room. Rows |
| end of the day, seem more like accomplishments | | | | tend to put several students between you and |
| that rival achieving peace in the Middle East. | | | | the kids in the back-each layer becomes another |
| Unfortunately, some teachers add to their own | | | | degree of disengagement. A U-shape formation |
| obstacles by not paying attention to simple design | | | | allows you to stay in close proximity to all of the |
| rules that can help children stay focused on what's | | | | students making it easy to hear and see. |
| being taught instead of on every possible | | | | Third, manage with highlighters! Huh? Make sure |
| distraction. | | | | each desk has Velcro (or a clip) to hold a regular |
| First, choose classroom furniture designed to help | | | | highlighting marker. During times that you are in |
| kids switch focus easily. We found a terrific | | | | front of the class giving instruction, have the |
| example in the Downview Desk manufactured by | | | | students remove their highlighters and highlight |
| Versa Products, Inc. Designed so students can | | | | certain phrases or objects on their own papers as |
| see the front of the room and their computer | | | | you talk about it. These moments of intense |
| monitors at the same time, this clever | | | | concentration will keep the students focused on |
| construction actually mounts the monitor below | | | | what you are saying and what they must look |
| the work surface under glare-free glass. No more | | | | for on their papers, instead of zoning out or |
| hiding behind a 17-inch screen and gazing off into | | | | chatting. The best part about highlighters instead |
| an abyss. Give yourself the ability to see your | | | | of markers, is they wash out of clothes easily |
| students at all time and know when they're | | | | and don't stain furniture that's been coated with |
| "getting it" and when they're not. | | | | durable finishes like Nevamar Armor Plated |
| Second, arrange desks in a U-shape as opposed | | | | Laminate. |