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As a teacher, you know that a well-organized classroom can make a huge difference in the efficiency and effectiveness of your teaching. A cluttered and disorganized classroom can lead to wasted time, confusion, and chaos among your students. Not to mention what it does to you as a teacher! On the other hand, a well-organized classroom can help you save time, keep your students engaged, and create a productive learning environment, all while saving your sanity.
In this ultimate guide to organizing your classroom, we'll cover various strategies and tips for setting up your classroom, creating a schedule, and keeping your students engaged. By following these tips, you'll be able to create an organized and productive classroom environment that will benefit both you and your students.
First, let's start with setting up your classroom. Your desk and storage areas should be set up in a way that is both functional and visually pleasing. Keep your desk clear of clutter and only have essential items on it, such as your lesson plans and grade book. As for storage, use clear plastic bins or labels to keep your materials organized and easy to find.
Next, let's talk about creating a schedule for your recurring tasks, like lesson planning and prep. Having a schedule in place can help you stay on track and ensure that you're using your time efficiently. Use a planner or, if you're into digital planning like me, your Ipad, Apple Pencil, and an app like Notability or my personal favorite Good Notes. The great debate of working outside of contract hours is a hot one, and I’m not judging! Personally, I do believe in working outside of contract hours within reason because there are just so many things to do and our plates are only getting fuller. They don’t give us enough hours to complete our tasks and I need to be prepared! I only work late 1-2 times per week and I bullet point the things I need to do so that I can be focused and effective with my time.
Finally, let's talk about keeping your students engaged. A well-organized classroom can help keep your students engaged and interested in learning. Use visual aids, such as posters or charts, to help explain concepts, and make sure to incorporate hands-on activities and projects into your lessons. You can also use technology, such as interactive whiteboards, educational apps, and my favorite, Echo Dot to remind me of all the things! I’ve got SPED students receiving services throughout the day, students who receive reading interventions, a different specialist everyday, the list goes on!
In conclusion, organizing your classroom can seem like a daunting task, but by following these tips, you'll be able to create an organized and productive classroom environment that will benefit both you and your students. Remember to keep your desk and storage areas clear, create a schedule for your planning, and keep your students engaged. Don't forget to also use helpful checklists, printables, and even tech like Echo Dot with Alexa to make the process easier. With a little bit of planning and organization, you can transform your classroom into a place where learning and productivity thrive.
