"The wrong seating arrangement can mean the difference between a controlled, constructed environment or a chaotic, unconstructive one" (Wong & Wong, 2018, P. 120).
Those are strong words. If we fail to consider the seating arrangement and layout of the classroom before a lesson begins, the consequences can have a ripple effect that can cause everything from simple chatter to an entire lesson being ineffective because of more substantial distractions. While seating arrangements can vary based on class size, room layout, and activity, there are a few that I believe are more conducive to a positive learning environment.
The classic layout of desks arranged in rows is always a go to for reading activities. Students face the front of the classroom and engage in active listening and/or individual reading. In order for extraneous distractions to occur, students have to shift around and "swivel" in their seats. Such an exaggerated movement would be easy to see and even easier to correct.
Another thing a teacher must consider when planning a classroom layout is students' access to supplies. "Within a given arrangement of space, the placement of materials can further support instructional goals" (Saphier et al, 2008, P. 45). Within the framework of this idea of keeping materials accessible, I favor the wheel arrangement shown to the right. With the desks placed in a half-oval, the far corners of the room open up for cubbies, file cabinets, and art supplies. By leaving a larger space in each corner, a few students could access the material at the same time.
