Providing Classroom Organization

Leslie Y. Gumabon

A lack of structure can destroy a learning environment and undermine a teacher's authority, leading to misbehavior and wasted time. Keeping a classroom structured does take a strong commitment from the teacher, but the rewards are well worth the time, effort, and planning required. Teachers who build a structured classroom will find that they enjoy their jobs more, see more growth in their students, and experience more positivity.

It all starts with a few simple steps. Being an effective teacher begins by providing structure in the classroom. Most students respond positively to structure, especially those who have little structure and stability in their home life. A structured classroom often translates to a safe classroom, one where students can enjoy themselves and focus on learning. In a structured learning environment, students are more likely to thrive and experience personal and academic growth.

Too often teachers provide students with freedoms that they can abuse. It is essential to recognize that the first few days of the school year often dictate the tone for the remainder of the year. Once you lose a class, you rarely get them back. Structure starts on day one. Rules and expectations should be laid out immediately, and possible consequences should be discussed in depth. Provide students with specific scenarios and walk them through your expectations as well as your plan for dealing with issues in the classroom. As a teacher, you should naturally come in with high expectations for your students. Convey your expectations to them, but set goals that are realistic and reachable. These goals should challenge your students both individually and as a class.

Have a set of expectations for everything including preparation, academic success, and student behavior inside and outside your classroom. Hold every student accountable for their actions in all areas of life. Do not allow them to be mediocre. Encourage them to be great and do not let them settle for less than that. Deal with issues immediately. Do not allow students to get away with something simply because it is a small issue, as small issues can easily develop into more serious issues over time. Be fair but tough. Always listen to your students and take what they have to say to heart.

Use their feedback to build the best classroom you can. Providing structure does not have to be difficult as you do not want to overwhelm your students. Pick a handful of the most fundamental rules and expectations as well as the most effective consequences. Spend a couple of minutes discussing or practicing them each day. Keep goal-setting simple.

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The author is Teacher III at Mabiga Elementary School, Division of Mabalacat

City