Does the space matter?

A couple of days ago I saw a recommendation on Twitter of the Schoolgirl Style blog. I hopped over there and took a look, and all of a sudden I felt that my classroom space is woefully inadequate. The spaces she has created are so amazing and creative. I also had a chance to take a look at some of the ideas my friend Krissy Venosdale (who I will get to meet in person at Advanced Space Academy this summer!) has on her blog, Venspired.

The spaces look so amazing and feel inspired. I am now wondering if this is something that I can incorporate into my classroom. Previously, I have always wanted to create spaces that had some character but not too much. I wanted it to feel like a place where all students could write their own story about science and feel at home.

I’m beginning to think, however, that I can do more in my classroom to make a more cohesive space. Well, I should say classrooms, as I have two classroom spaces – one with desks and one with lab tables with a connecting door between. Here’s what I do know – it has to revolve around space in some way. I’d also like to build upon the themes I started to incorporate this year.

I’d also like to create some interactive spaces like Krissy mentioned in her post in her post A Place of Learning. I am sure there must be some cool things I can come up with that will work in my classroom.

Here is what I am hoping to create for next year:

  • A creative, inspiring space(s)
  • A place that highlights Earth and Space Science
  • A place where all students will fill welcome
  • An organized, logical place
  • An interactive place
  • Somewhere students want to be

Finally, this is what my classroom looks like this year – or at least how it looked when I set up it up in the fall. I think it is a good start, but there is so much more that can be done. So, do you agree: does the space matter? And, do you have any suggestions for me?

By Janelle

Space geek, science nerd extraordinaire. That's me! Want to know more, visit the About page.

3 comments

  1. Janelle–
    Can’t wait to chat in person this summer! I have two spaces to decorate too – I really want to do some 3d art on the walls next year — maybe moon with a flag sticking out! I am excited to think about planning for a new year!
    See you soon!
    Krissy

    1. That’s a great idea, Krissy! Hmmm. Another idea I had today was to add some Lego for kids to build with in my Imagination Corner. Looks like we’ll be having slightly longer classes next year (going from 55 min to 70 min), so I may have more exploration time to build in. Planning really is exciting!

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