Seating arrangements

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Seating arrangements
By Debbie

Hi again,
You're welcome! Funny you should mention that...before school started, my partner and I made a preliminary seating chart based upon what we knew about each child (nearly all our kids are ones we've had in previous
years or siblings) We tried to balance the tables equitably, and wanted to keep each table together for at least a week, so everyone could really have a chance to learn about the strengths and interests of the others...well, we're on our 4th seating chart in five days this Monday. Hopefully, this one will be useful for at least the first few weeks. We'll see.
At the middle school

and high school, the teachers start by alphabetizing the kids, as they have numerous classes to keep track of (as you do)...but maybe do this by first name, just until you get to know everyone and their personalities. Then switch them around to suit the groups. When you feel everyone's ready for a change, move them again. I really like to change the tables so that each child gets to meet every other child by the end of the first quarter. You'll also need to figure out which children need to be nearest to you; mine are at the tables closest to our group work table...And if you have one or two who just can't handle group work at times, bring in an extra desk or two for individuals as necessary. Best of luck! ;-D
Also, don't abandon the community building activities, they are essential throughout the year to maintain collaborative learning! You may want to look thru your science concepts to see how the activities may be modified to develop and promote team work. I've heard about a science program, Kendall Hunt, that relies heavily on group work. Let us know how it goes.