IMPORTANT: Updated Classroom Environment Checklist

As you are preparing your classroom for the upcoming school year, PLEASE review the classroom environment checklist.

Classroom Environment Checklist 2012-2013

What does a literacy rich classroom look like?

Start planning now for the upcoming school year! Below you will find useful information on what a literacy rich classroom should look like.

A well-organized, positive learning environment includes:
•    A sense of order (schedule, management, tone) (sample #1   #2)

•    Room is well organized, nurturing, & supports learning  (sample )

•    Room is free of clutter
•    Room reflects teacher’s personal style
•    Procedures are established & students follow them routinely without need for
      repetition (sample  #1    #2 )
•    Appropriate guidelines are in place, which enables students to engage in real learning   
      through inquiry
•    Smooth transitions are evident
•    Materials are organized, labeled, & easily accessible to students (sample #1)
•    Student seating supports interaction & cooperative learning activities
•    Perceptive teachers listen attentively to students, observe learning styles, teach to
      needs, & incorporate strategies to increase learning
•    Provides print-rich environment which includes:

o    Labeling (samples #1 #2 )
o    Concept charts (samples #1 #2 #3 )
o    Definition charts (samples #1 #2 )
o    6+1 Traits posters (posters )
o    Comprehension posters (posters )

•    Provides opportunities for authentic literacy practice rather than worksheets
•    Displays student writing (on walls, in class books, etc.) (samples #1    #2    )
•    Creates a classroom library that consists of narrative and informational texts in a wide variety  

      of genres, that are appropriately leveled for independent reading (samples #1    #2   #3 )
•    Provides literacy centers or independent study literacy materials (samples  #1   #2  #3   #4  )
•    Provides writing areas (samples #1   #2 )
•    Posts Word Walls that are focused on literacy including content words (samples #1    #2 )

(#3    #4)

Source: http://t4.jordan.k12.ut.us/cbl/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=28&Itemid=54