My students are hardworking, enthusiastic, and energetic 6th and 7th graders. In our Reading Support classes, we have various learning styles and multiple intelligence that need to be accommodated in order for students to reach his/her learning potential. We are an ethnically diverse school, with over 100 different languages spoken throughout the district. In addition, over 50% of our students come from economically disadvantaged homes. We are in the process of adding more flexible seating to our classroom, and would love the addition of Bouncy Bands to help focus during reading and writing.
The students are 6th and 7th Reading Support students from an urban school in Connecticut.
With the incorporation of flexible seating options, I have seen great improvement in my students focus and excitement towards reading and writing, which in turn has eliminated off task behavior. My hope through these additional items is that students continue to have success in a safe space, where they can thrive and grow.
My Project
Much like adults, it’s difficult for students to sit at desks all day. Over the past few years I have worked on creating an enjoyable reading space for my students. In place of some of our traditional desks, we now have several bean bags, a reading rug, and two stand up desks. The students are always so excited to come to class so they get first pick for their seating. The bouncy bands allows for students to move without being disruptive. This helps them focus and use class time more effectively. In addition, it makes sure that all students enjoy some type of "flex" seating, even if they miss out on a bean bag!
As a magnet school, we are focused on student’s multiple intelligence, including kinesthetic learners.
As teachers, I feel it's important to encourage students to explore how they learn best. There are many benefits to flexible seating aside from ensuring students aren't sedentary all day. Movement and flexible seating allow for sensory breaks for those children who need it.
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