Classroom Design for Preschool

Instructions for the Written Assignment
Image by Brian Hart, via flickr.com

For this creative project you will design a developmentally appropriate classroom. If you work in a program, please use it as a guide (complete with any space/material challenges you may have). If you do not work in a program, design one with everything you think you need. In your project be sure to include all the important components as outlined in your readings and the ECERS:

1. Be sure you include all the learning activity areas (dramatic play, music and movement, blocks, nature/science, etc.). They should be in clearly defined centers but be creative with your space!

2. Apply the guidelines from the ECERS to your project at an advanced level. For example, is the sink near the the art center? Are the loud areas separate from the quiet areas? Is there space for science experiments and/or cooking on a regular basis?

3. Please be sure that there is space for gross motor play.

4. When the design is complete please include a 4-5 page narrative that explains your choices. Be sure to cite the ECERS or at least list it as your primary source. For example, you aren’t required to have a computer or technology, but if you do have one in your design please be sure to explain the appropriate use of technology. Also, you may not have access to a sink in the classroom so be sure to note how this might affect your score.

Tools:

You may design your classroom in whatever format is comfortable for you; word document, powerpoint, or paper and pencil. When it is complete, it should be scanned and uploaded with your essay. If you prefer, you are welcome to use the online resource, Classroom Architect Opens in a new window. The save function in Classroom Architect is there so you can temporarily save a drawing in order to compare it to another drawing in the same session. Once you close your Web browser, all saved floor plans are removed. If you want to save a floor plan, the best way is to use the Print Screen button on your keyboard to take a picture of the screen and save it as a graphic. Save it as a GIF or JPG file, crop it in an image editor like Photoshop or Paint (there are free image editors online if you don’t have Photoshop; your computer might also come with an image editor).

Please submit your written paper as well as the design (or link to your classroom design) in the submission space provided here. To review the grading criteria, please visit the Classroom design assignment evaluation rubric Opens in a new window.

Last Completed Projects