Classroom Set-Up

Establishing a safe, structured, comfortable environment is critical to the success of a READ 180 classroom.

Why is setting up the READ 180 classroom so important?

1. Creates an Impressive Learning Environment
   Upon entering the room, the students' initial reaction should be that this is a place of learning. The room should have positive messages about reading and the learning process posted on the walls. The students should see print everywhere. When the student peeks in the door, he or she should see books that will target a young adult's interest. The READ 180 classroom is a place where students want to be.
2. Builds a Strong First Impression
   The setup of the room will be the students' first impression of what the teacher will be offering them. There is only one chance to create the "first impression" of the classroom. Let the classroom décor invite the student to learn.

Example Classroom
Teachers need to set up distinct areas for each rotation. Notice these areas in this diagram:

Suggestions for Setting Up the READ 180 Classroom
The classroom should look and feel like a special place for reading, learning, and sharing ideas. Teachers can:

Display books in an inviting way. Provide a comfortable reading area for independent and modeled reading. Display posters, quotations, and artwork that reflect the interests of the teacher and the students. Provide a room of good size that offers movement and allows the students to engage more fully in the READ 180 components. Provide at least two bulletin boards: one for seasonal messages and one to display students' successes and publishing. Place a bulletin board outside of the READ 180 classroom door so that students can share their published work with others in the school. In a READ 180 classroom, the teacher's desk is off on the side or in a corner. The focus is on the students.

Read Noelle's suggestion on classroom set-up.