Creating an Environment

This last Friday morning I was in my classroom when I looked up and saw this image in our writing center. I witnessed four children working alongside each other, quietly sharing their work and ideas on a common writing assignment about a little girl whose kite took her away with the wind. Small moments like these fill my heart with pride as I see children interested in the process of learning in a shared environment.

Many educational psychologist reference the importance of relationships, communications, and interactions between children as they construct their understandings. The children in this picture have spent time this year learning to trust each other, and communicate effectively about their work. An environment rich with shared spaces and time to interact provides children with a different piece of an educational puzzle.

• How does this environment change children's work?
• What other steps can be taken to give children the space they need to formulate strong concepts with their peers?