The Power of the
Classroom’s
“Climate”
“…a way of thinking and
acting that allows individuals
to feel accepted, valued, safe,
[and smart].”
(-Manitoba Education, Training and Youth, 2001)
High Expectations
Culturally
Responsive
Instruction
Positive Classroom Climate
Supportive
Classroom
Structures
Relationships
In a ‘Winning’ Climate You Feel:
Pride
Connection
Commitment
Excitement
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Creating a Positive
Classroom Environment
 I want to know you.
 I have time for you.
 I respect who you are and who you can
become.
 I see things through your eyes.
 This classroom is ours, not mine.
Invitations to Learn
Affirmation
Contributio
n
(Tomlinson, University of Virginia, 2002)
Invitational Learning
(continued)
Purpose
Power
Challenge
(Tomlinson, University of Virginia, 2002)
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A Climate of High
Achievement
 Social/Emotional
Environment
 Learning Environment
 Physical Environment
In a Social/Emotional
Environment . . .
…Students are more
likely to succeed
when they feel
connected
to the classroom.
Social/Emotional Environment
 Welcomed & Respected
 Responsible Behavior
 Parental Involvement
 Listening &
Communication
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Building a Social/Emotional
Environment
Motivated
Classroom
Management
Attendance
Personal Growth
Learning Environment
 High Expectations
 Celebrations
 Diverse Perspectives
A Learning Environment’s
“Raison d’être”
 Students’ Voices
Activated
 Student-Centered
 Inclusionary Language
 Higher-Order Thinking
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A Learning Environment’s
“Ambience”
“Ambience refers to the mood
or atmosphere of your
classroom environment.”
(Andrea M. Guillaume, 2000)
Physical Environment
The Classroom is…
…“Home Away
From Home.”
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A Physical Environment is:
 Stimulating
 Functional
 Motivational
 Attractive
(Mynster, 1997)
A Matter of Thinking
"The world we have
created
is a product of our
thinking;
it cannot be changed without
changing our thinking."
- Albert Einstein
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