The classroom can be set up in a semi-circular format. Arrange the desks around the sides of the room, starting from one edge of the blackboard and rounding out to the blackboard's other edge. This is ideal for encouraging discussion and participation. Students can all see each other, making it easier to pay attention to what is being said, and interact in a more conversational manner. The teacher can also stand at the center of the group, seeing students face to face, and performing demos with ease.
A common classroom setup is in linear fashion. Arrange students in vertical rows across the room, having them sit individually with aisle room between each row. This ensures that each student is facing the front of the room. Teachers can also navigate throughout the room without hazard, and have room to stop and talk with each individual student when necessary.
A good setup for allowing students to interact without having noise levels get out of hand is to seat them in pairs. Set desks up in vertical rows with the desks in pairs of two. Kids can help each other help with assignments, and working in pairs will become less stressful and loud, as they can simply work with their desk mate. You may choose to allow kids to select their own desk mate, or assign them yourself to avoid trouble and encourage new friendships.
Setting the classroom up in groups is ideal for promoting teamwork and shared knowledge. Arrange the desks in groups of four, with two desks side by side facing two other desks. Spread the groups out as much as possible to allow for ample walking space. Students can help each other out, combining their individual strengths to complete work and improve in varying areas. This is particularly useful for immersing less outgoing students in the social aspect of education.