Space!

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Home : 2002 : February : 24

Space!
By Elaine

I agree with Debbie about designating one section of desks as a place for meeting with a guided readers group. I know it can be distracting to the students seated nearby as well, so some of them would need to move to another
space in the room. I had a huge classroom the first year I taught but have fought with furniture for 6 years since then. I have finally scaled down to the bare minimum (got rid of my teacher's desk and that big old kidney-shaped table I thought I just couldn't live without), and now we have some space available without having to move things out of the way. However, I still struggle

with groups because we (and that includes me) are just too loud.

My point is that there's always some obstacle to overcome. The Guided Readers and Writers book that Debbie mentions would be a great help. Are the teacvhers in your school reading that book or just trying to implement the approach? Go over to the Book Board and you'll find a link for the Teachers as Readers Board. It's new, and we are trying (When is there time????????) to read and discuss the GR&W book together. Drop in and ask your question about space over there. Maybe you can get some more valuable info. Good luck with your efforts -- 32 students? I definitely feel for you.
Elaine