New Car Smell

Ever since I was little I have dreamed about having a classroom to decorate.  It is one of my favorite things about the beginning of school.  Of course, I am not a little kid anymore and realize there is more thought that needs to go into creating a good learning environment for students than just some posters on the wall.  Here are some things I took into consideration as I set up my classroom this year:

Growth Mindset - I have decided to have a big focus on Growth Mindset this year.  In my class I have a bulletin board that teaches my students how to change their words and thoughts to help create a growth mindset.  I am sure as the year progresses we will refer to this bulletin board often as a reminder.  Also, I have created a space to highlight those "Mindset Moments."  Throughout the year, my students or I will write down moments where we noticed a growth mindset.  I hope that the board is overflowing by December!

Varied Work Spaces - I think it is so important to have a variety of work spaces for students from cushioned chairs to open floor space and even some clear counter space for students to stand at.

Depth & Complexity - This year one of my goals is to incorporate the Depth & Complexity icons into my lessons even more than last year.  So, I have made sure to have a space where they are visible to me and the class in hopes of adding these into class discussions.

Motivation Wall - I may have a slight overload of motivational posters, but I just can't pick a few.  I decided to create a gallery wall behind my desk to help motivate my students and I.

Math Vocabulary - Although my vocabulary cards are not in these pictures, I have made a space at the front of my classroom for math vocabulary.  I have cards with definitions and pictures on them that I post at the beginning of each unit.  We talk through the vocabulary and play games with them throughout each unit.

These are just a few things I took into consideration at the start of this new school year.  I am sure there will be many things added as the school year progresses.  I hope everyone has a wonderful school year!