15 · Wednesday, September 12, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Fall Registration Research shows classroom layout can affect learning When school begins anew, students are often excited about seeing their friends again and spending time with classmates they will be learning alongside all year. Though who a student sits next to in class is important to students for one reason, teachers have different motives behind classroom seating arrangements. Classroom layout plays a role in how students learn, concentrate and behave. Before the school year begins, teachers may establish a seating and learning environment unique from other classes. Throughout the school year, adjustments may be made in the best interest in children. According to Scholastic, oftentimes elementary school-aged children learn best when they're allowed to move throughout the classroom. Learning stations that allow such movement have become more popular in classrooms. One station may cater to auditory learning, while another may feature manipulatives that is ideal for students who thrive by learning with tangible items. Computer stations are also common, and this variety of stations breaks up the monotony of one type of learning by keeping students interested and engaged. Some teachers prefer to arrange desks in different fashions depending on the teachers' teaching styles. The design of long rows of desks all facing the front of the classroom is not always practical for students or teachers. It can be difficult for teachers to see students in the middle or the back of the room, while students may find it difficult to concentrate on learning if they're staring at the backs of other classmates' heads. Common desk layouts include grouping a few desks together to face one another for collaborative lessons. Some teachers prefer a "U" or circle layout to encourage discussions. Students prefer different environments in which to learn, and teachers may be wise to create different scenarios inside the classroom. A cubicle or desk shielded by bookcases can be a good retreat Continued on page 16 Young People's Theatre for the GTA & Southwestern Ontario Great Big Theatre Company Oakville Children's Music Theatre The only children's program in Oakville that is dedicated exclusively to Musical Theatre Acting Classes Fall/Winter/Spring 2012-13 For Ages 6 to 13 Nine-week Sessions Recognized by the Government of Canada for working creatively with children in their pursuit of excellence in Musical Theatre since 1995. Level One: JK to Grade 2 · Level Two: Grades 3, 4 and 5 · Level Three: Grades 6, 7 and 8 All classes culminate in a full "Broadway Style" showcase in June All teachers have University / College degrees and are sensitive to the individual requirements of our students. Student teacher ratio 5 to 1. Self Esteem · Confidence · Teamwork 905·842·9535 www.ocmt.on.ca City Parent Magazines Reader's Choice 2011 & 2012 BEST DRAMA SCHOOL A great confidence and skill building experience! onstage@gbtc.com · www.gbtc.com 1-866-864-4282 (TOLL-FREE) nce AcAdemy | 9 0 5 . 8 2 9 .1610 | ww Annex dAnce 905.829.1610 www.annexdanceacademy.com RegistRAtion tuesdAy's And thuRsdAy's oR on-line Anytime.