Into Action!!

A Panoramic View

We were so excited to get going with the 'Beginning Level' of inquiry.  Our goal of this stage was pure engagement- with the provocation being intentionally selected materials and a newly organized and stocked classroom library.  (We did give students an interest survey prior to starting our hands-on exploration).

Prior to Day One, we did take some time to prepare the classroom.  'Preparing' included the reorganization of furniture in order to make the best use of space.  We wanted to create as many options as possible for both collaborative and independent learning opportunities. This would honour all learning styles.  

We also organized materials to some extent but that wasn't our main focus.  Instead, we wanted the students to assist with the final organization of things.  In light of honouring their voice and shared ownership of the classroom, we wanted all final decisions to be a collective agreement.

After settling on the arrangements below, we were ready and excited for Day One!!

One of 5 collaborative work space 
and our newly placed library

Lego, writing materials, hands-on materials on a
shelfto create a natural barrier between work spaces

On the right- a workspace on the floor; mats will be
added for increased comfort but we didn't have 
them for Day One and we were anxious to get started.  
Students had shown a preference to working on 
the floor so we created a space where they could go.