I decided that the images in my Lightroom catalogue that best illustrate the theme of arranged would be a few from my files of classroom pictures. I bypassed many because they show students’ faces, and I do not have their permission to post them; therefore, I chose to show the classroom devoid of teenagers. I hope that you enjoy a look into my workplace in all of its various arrangements. (These shots were taken with the Canon G12 and aren’t as sharp as those from my Nikon D90. I know that the G12 is capable of producing good images; I think I just haven’t learned how to use it.)
You can see that the arrangement of papers on my desk is messy, reflecting my mind; this must have been lunch-time or the end of the day. It also shows that I am working on at least five tasks at one time.
What's the saying: a cluttered desk is a sign of genius?
These files were arranged by category at the beginning of the year. Now, the files in the 1st 1/4 of the drawer were moved off piles on by desk and floor and are waiting to be filed. I bet that might happen in August when the new year begins.
At least the files are arranged in some semblance of order. Another drawer contains stacks of random papers without the hint of organization.
This shot shows my typical arrangement of desks, which are configured so that each student has a partner; I use a lot of “turn to your partner and discuss…” type of strategies. They can easily turn the desks around to enable small groups of four for a more extended small group discussion.
I try to teach the students how to work together.
When the students walk into a new arrangement, they complain; they like stability. I like to mix things up and arrange the desks to suit the lesson.
Arranged for whole class discussion of a short story.
Ah! My desk is neatly arranged. This must have been at the beginning of a day, before clutter and chaos rule. Lately, I haven’t been able to see the desk, even at the start of the day.
Before students bring their teenage enthusiasm into the room
Though I like unclutter, clutter descends quickly no matter how hard I try. It makes my hubby scratch his head, but things spread out “in process” is how I get it all done. At least, I think!
That is chaos? Is there a word for what my desk looks like? My wife occasionally has a few suggestions, but I would rather not print them here. lol
Be encouraged!
Perhaps it’s “arranged” chaos?
Hmmm, your messy does not look so very messy, Mona.
I’ll bet you are a fabulous teacher!
~ Lily
Actually, I did not have my camera with me on the days when the desk and room were disastrous.
Sometimes its better to have a messy desk that a clean one! Shows somethingis happening there! Love your pictures.
In that case, something is ALWAYS happening. My home “office” space is much worse.
Same here!
Love the photo-peak into your everyday “arrangements”. Great pic theme with your classroom!
Since I spend a majority of my waking hours in this room, I thought I should begin to take some pics of it. Thanks!
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Mona, what was the short story for the whole class discussion?
When I took that pic, I think we were studying Romeo & Juliet….or maybe we were beginning a novel study. Hm, I don’t remember.
I’m searching for short short stories for teaching English to migrants, and am interested in hearing about stories that have worked for other teachers. My students often baulk at anything longer than 2 pages and then say they don’t like reading. But they want to learn English!
OH! Now I know why you asked and what you want. I will look through my files and send you something. 2 pages? Hispanic or another home language?
Not Hispanic (I live in Australia – not many Spanish speakers here). My students’ first languages are varied – Chinese, Vietnamese, Arabic, French. I don’t want you to go to the trouble of finding stories – a title or two will be sufficient. I can then go online or to my local library to get them. Thanks Mona.
Actually, this is something I need to prepare for my job in China this summer. So you are doing me a favor asking for this now. As soon as I get this together, I will let you know. It IS difficult to get some good literature for them to read that is not watered-down pablum.