- In creating your Classroom Environment Plan what have you done that is different than what you have done in the past?
I have put my brag board in the front of the room for students to post any work they were proud of. - What have you enhanced within your plan that you have done previously in your classroom?
I have planned for a different way of introducing rules to the class. I have always let them choose the rules, but this time I was much more open about the rules I was willing to accept. The process was more visual than in previous years.
- How are you promoting cognitively challenging and stimulating learning?
Class is cognitively challenging because students will be asked to make work together consistently throughout class, but will also have to learn to compromise, especially when they are making the rules for the class. - What activities are you using that support key learning targets?
I wouldn't say that a learning target is Power in the classroom, but the goal is to try to help my students feel like they are in control of the room, they are the ones with the power to create change. Eventually in my class, we learn about change makers in a historical context. I want them to know they can be the agents of change. - How does your environment energize and celebrates learning?
Students will be able to share their proud moments/assignments on the "Brag Board." Students will be energized to take part in this class because they will be given the means to make decisions in their learning.
- How is research supporting your plan?
The research says that a classroom constitution can be used to help students develop the classroom rules. This helps develop the relationship between the students and teacher, students will be less likely to disrupt the learning environment - What research has helped influence your plan in setting up the physical environment?
The most influential research I read was from the book Classroom of Choice, specifcally the chapter entitled "Power in the Classroom: Creating the Environment" by Jonathan C. Erwin. You can read this article for free online by clicking on the link provided.