Here’s a simple idea that’s great for classroom organization and culture: photographic seating chart posters. And as elementary school as this may sound, my middle and high school students got into it too, since kids of all ages appreciate anything that conveys to them that it’s their classroom--which seeing your mug on the wall alongside those of your classmates certainly does.
As for getting started, there may be more efficient ways, but here’s how I did it in my technology-limited days (photo below):
- Laminate one poster board per class.
- Insert 2-1/2″ w x 3-1/2″ h photos of students into baseball card plastic protector sleeves.
- Mount the plastic sleeves on the board according to your actual seating chart, using adhesive backed Velcro strips.
- Write students’ names under their photos using a wet erase pen (also identify the class at the top if you teach multiple classes).
- Post the boards on a side or rear wall.
- Detach and relocate the plastic sleeves with the pictures still inside whenever you reassign seats.
Again, an easy way to create a more upbeat, organized classroom. And students aren’t the only ones who will appreciate it--you’ll know what I mean if you’ve ever been a substitute teacher like I have.
Say cheese.
Image provided by GECC, LLC with permission