The Hot Model in
your Classroom!

1. Make a scale model of your classroom using cardboard or a shoebox. Recreate the room and all the objects in it as accurately as possible.
   
   
2. Come up with opportunities for change or problems to solve in your classroom. For example, think about how you sit. Do you need to stand at any point? How do you use the walls? Could they be used more creatively to help you learn? Is there an area for different kinds of work and activities like reading or modelling? How about a stage for presentations?
   
   
3. Add new wall graphics (images that cover a whole wall) to the model. How do they change the look of the classroom? Rearrange the furniture to make the space your own.
   
   
4. In 15 minutes or less, present your group's model to the class. Discuss the ideas with the class and your teacher. Could some of the ideas be realized with support from your teacher, caretaker or principal?

Example:

Make a model as described. Use it to play around with different design ideas. You can make different iterations. One might be very experimental or artistic – you might even drape the ceiling in fabric. Use the model to see how it would look. Another idea might be to arrange the tables and chairs in a different way – one that you just feel is cool.

After experimenting for a while, try getting more scientific and focus on problem solving. Try to come up with good arguments for your changes to the classroom. It’s not enough to say “it will make me happy.” Defend your ideas by explaining how they solve real problems. For example, a problem might be, “In our group we all get tired around 1pm." Your solution might be," To prevent this, we would like to move the tables every day around that time.”