- 1). Keep room well supplied with appropriate materials for your grade level. Primary classrooms need manipulative items like plastic letter and number tiles and small items for counting and sorting. Keep art paper, markers, crayons, paint and craft supplies on hand so cooperative learning can be completed in a timely manner.
- 2). Use lightweight storage containers, especially for younger students. If possible, store all materials in clear plastic boxes and label everything. This makes finding things easier for you and your class. Designate a materials area in the classroom, preferably with low shelving so students can independently retrieve what they need.
- 3). Set up the classroom in a way that encourages cooperative learning. The optimum setting is to have four to six children sitting at a table. If tables are not available, create them yourself by turning four desks around to face each other. Students usually participate more if they can directly interact.
- 4). Display class schedules at students' eye level and encourage them to consult the schedule so transition times flow smoothly. After the first few weeks of school, your class should know the routine well enough without having to ask for step-by-step instructions. Hopefully, this will promote responsibility and personal accountability.