Classroom Traffic Flow

Classroom Traffic Flow

Having clear routes for student and teacher movement enables quick and safe access to resources in the classroom as well as more time to focus on learning. 

Routes 

The teacher creates clear, wide walkways around furniture and equipment to avoid bumping into furniture or other students/teachers. Problem behaviours are more likely to occur when students are too close to each other and their belongings during transitions.

Materials 

The teacher organises essential learning materials so that they are within easy reach to reduce time getting supplies. They also assign spaces and label containers for storing their materials, so they can easily access them when needed. Further, they keep instructional materials ordered according to their daily and weekly use; these materials are prepared and within reach during teaching. 

Routines 

The teacher takes time to explicitly teach students the routes and routines for navigating the classroom, including: 

• accessing materials and personal belongings 
• cleaning up after a lesson 
• transitioning to whole group, small group, and independent work 
• lining up 
• preparing for and wrapping up the school day 
• emergency and safety drills.