CELTA Online Orientation Task 7: Classroom Layout
Here are three pictures of possible classroom layouts. Look at the pictures and make notes on the
advantages and disadvantages of each layout. An example has been done for you.
Your responses
Classroom layout Advantages
Suggested answer
Classroom layout Advantages
 Many students can fit
into the classroom
 All the students can see
the teacher and the
board
 The teacher can see all
the students
 All the students can see
each other so they can
see one another and are
encouraged to
communicate together
Disadvantages
Disadvantages
 It might be difficult for the
teacher to see students
who are not in the front
row and hear pairwork
nearer the back
 Students can only speak
to immediate neighbours
 Difficult for students to
get up and talk to others
 Fewer students can fit
into the classroom
 The students on the edge
of the horseshoe might
not see the board as well
as those in the middle
  Students are
automatically arranged in
groups
 More students can fit into
the classroom
 Students are encouraged
to speak and listen to
each other in their group
 The students on the
outside of each table
might not be able to see
the board as well as those
in the centre
 Some students will not be
able to see their peers
without turning around
 Students may not have
enough room on the
tables

Commentary

Often teachers are unable to change the layout of the classroom due to restrictions in the school; for
example, chairs and desks cannot be moved or there may be a large number of students. However,
where possible the teacher can organise the layout of the classroom to maximise interaction
between the teacher and students. It is a good idea for teachers to change the layout of the
classroom according to the activities students are doing, as well as to ensure students work with a
variety of partners.