When setting up your new classroom, you want to make the most of your space. You will need to fit in the necessary equipment, possibly including a presentation screen, classroom materials, a work space and, of course, students. Match your classroom to the age of your students, taking into consideration your lesson plans and their interests. No matter what grade you teach, you can brighten up the classroom with colorful posters and plants.
Differentiated teaching refers to modifying your instruction to cater to the students' abilities. There are three primary types of learners: kinesthetic, auditory and visual. Kinesthetic learners grasp concepts through demonstrations, movies and videos, and simulations. Auditory learners work best with information that is either heard or spoken, such as lectures, discussions and tutorials. Visual learners need to see the information displayed on diagrams, charts and maps. You may have to plan different types of learning activities for the same lesson plan to keep up with students' varied learning styles.
A main component in creating a positive classroom environment is to make it a relaxed, happy, supportive one. Students should be encouraged to help each other, when appropriate, such as during a group project. The relationships among students should be just as important as the teacher-student dynamic. During group discussions, teachers should encourage students to express different opinions and theories related to the curriculum, as long as their views are appropriate to be shared with the class.
While a pleasant, calm environment is important in a learning atmosphere, teachers also have to set expectations and standards, and make it clear who's in charge. A system for disciplining your students should be determined then communicated to them so they know what's expected. The first time a student misbehaves, he can be warned. The second time, he loses a privilege. The third time, he goes straight to the principal's office.