As teachers, we are well aware that effective learning environments require attention to classroom management. But how much attention is needed? Is there such a thing as too much structure?
While some may shy away from too much structure, I have found through experience (and confirmed through research) that structure is what actually creates freedom and fosters creativity in the classroom. Let's take a look at how this is possible!
The Relationship between Structure and Freedom
For a minute early in my teaching career, I remember worrying that if I had too much detail in my plans it would squash the creative juices of my students and inhibit their learning experience. I say for a minute because it only took a couple chaotic lessons for me to swing hard to the opposite side of the spectrum! Even now, as I raise two toddlers, I find myself wondering "if I have to much structure, too much consistent "rhythm" to our day, will they be limited?" Only to then step back and watch how they flourish with days that are structured using consistent routines.
Contrary to common belief (and my original intuition both in the classroom and as a parent), structure is not the enemy of freedom; rather, it is its enabler. Think of structure as the framework that supports and guides both teachers and students towards success. By establishing clear expectations and routines, structure empowers individuals to explore and create within a safe and organized space. It provides the necessary boundaries within which true creativity and freedom can thrive.
Calming Chaos: Encouraging Insightful Conversations and Creative Ideas
A structured classroom environment is like a harmonious symphony, where every instrument plays its part in creating a beautiful composition. Just as each musician follows the conductor's guidance and the sheet music, students thrive when they understand the expectations and routines established in the classroom. This orchestration of structure allows for a seamless flow of learning, fostering a sense of harmony and enabling students to engage in insightful conversations that deepen their understanding of content and of life.
When students know what is expected of them and have a predictable routine, disruptions are minimized, allowing for a more focused and engaged learning environment. In this calm and orderly atmosphere, students feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts, asking questions, engaging in insightful conversations, and thinking outside the box.
Flexibility within Structure
In my second year teaching, I had caught the detailed-oriented classroom management bug. I experienced to many wild, chaotic, and sometimes potentially unsafe days in my first year and was determined never to have another moment like that in my life. Everything was meticulously planned and executed. Then one day, an unexpected assembly in the gymnasium was called over the intercom (all you teachers out there are gasping in shock and horror I'm sure...or just rolling your eyes because Hey, it's another Tuesday!). Internally, I was a panicked mess. I had not prepped my students. We didn't go over it in the morning meeting daily schedule review. I didn't set specific expectations for this part of the day. And the year before, anytime a curve ball like this was thrown at my class-oh lord, bless us all...a nightmare.
But then... it wasn't. It wasn't a nightmare. My students calmly walked to the gymnasium ad sat completely engaged in an assembly that modeled and encouraged creativity in the field of science. When we returned to the classroom they entered silently, taking a book out to read without my prompting. And then read silently while I gathered materials for that day's science lesson. A few things came from this: 1) We had an unexpected science show and it did not derail the whole day (or even a fraction of the day) and 2) Because of the daily structure and consistent expectations, my students were able to engage in this show in a way my previous class never did. The proceeding science lesson had a classroom full of inspired young scientists ready to make new and creative discoveries. I was in shock that day, but looking back, it all makes sense.
A well-structured classroom allows for flexibility and adaptability. When you have a solid plan and routine in place, it becomes easier to deviate from the structure on special occasions without losing control. Whether it's a class celebration, a guest speaker, or a spontaneous learning opportunity, a structured environment can accommodate these enriching experiences while maintaining a sense of order and purpose.
Tailoring Plans to Students' Needs
Structure in the classroom doesn't mean rigidly adhering to a predetermined script. Personally, I have scripted out all my routines and procedures for the year. But I certainly don't read from them. My script provides a solid base from which I can then tailor these plans to meet the unique needs of my students every year.
Using scripted plans or marking up existing plans allows for customization, ensuring that lessons and activities are relevant, engaging, and impactful. No need to reinvent the wheel each year, just a little bit of tweaking here and there to suit your students. This adaptability within structure maximizes student learning and creates an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
Final Thoughts
Embracing structure doesn't mean sacrificing creativity or spontaneity; it actually creates the space for freedom and creativity to flourish. By establishing clear expectations, routines, and plans, we provide the foundation for a calm and organized learning environment where insightful conversations and creativity can thrive. So let us embrace structure, knowing that it is the key that unlocks the door to student success.
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