Simplicity is the basis by which I attempt to create a stimulating classroom environment. When I first arrived at Starks Field, the music room was unbelievably cluttered with instruments strewn randomly around the room. Over the past three years, I have spent a significant amount of my time organizing the music room to minimize visual distractions and to make the room feel as spacious as possible. This is important because I use my room for such a wide range of activities (violin lessons, computer lessons, samba drumming, recorder clubs).
By de-cluttering my room, I have made it safer to use computers and to have whole-class lessons in the music room. I also feel that my lessons are much more effective and easier to manage when there is less clutter. There are far fewer opportunities for children to mess about with items in the room, and it is easier for me to direct focus.
Following staff training on learning environments (Summer 2015), I have attempted to add elements to my classroom to provide effective visual stimuli, as well as chances to induce metacognition and independent learning. For example, I display the LO and Success Criteria for each lesson in two places in the room. I also have a Music Medals chart that shows which children have passed their music exams. This is intended to recognize children’s hard word, while encouraging high aspirations from all children.
The following photo shows how I display the LO and Success Criteria. This helps to create a safe and stimulating environment, as the children immediately can figure out what we are learning each week. This also helps the TAs and other adults in the room to better support children in the class.
I display a set of “I Can” statements in the classroom, which are based upon the National Curriculum statements. This display helps children to consider what they are able to do, and to set personal goals for their musical achievement.
This display is a collection of information that children need to know in order to succeed in most of my lessons. I have tried to make clear and simple illustrations of musical notes and pitches, which are challenging concepts for most children. I display this at the front of the room, next to the Smart Board, so it is in a very prominent and accessible location. This helps to develop a sense of safety and security, as children are able to refer to this board if they struggle to read pitches or rhythms.
I have a Music Medals chart, which celebrates children’s achievements when they pass their music exams. The children like to see their faces on the chart, and that serves as a source of extrinsic motivation to succeed in music. This is a visual reminder of children’s hard work, which helps them to aspire to reach higher levels of success.
