The last year of elementary school can be difficult. The social dynamics are changing, the curriculum is more challenging, and it’s the end of an important chapter in kids’ lives. As such, it’s not surprising that things can get a little emotional. Create a supportive learning environment for this milestone year with these fifth grade classroom ideas. They’ll love it!
1. Create a reading oasis
Let them escape the classroom and jump into a new adventure with this reading space.
Source: @huynhin5th
2. Nurture and encourage growth
Foster a growth mindset in your fifth grade classroom every single day!
Source: @huynhin5th‘s wonderful chalkboard idea.
3. Get detail-oriented
This library took a lot of effort, but students will have so much to explore.
Source: @mrsolsen_luvs2teach
4. Choose your own adventure
Encourage students to dive into incredible biographical stories and fictional tales.
Source: @huynhin5th‘s adventure nook.
5. Add a fresh coat
Freshening up your wall color can breathe new life into your classroom.
Source: @mrandmrs5thgrade
6. Be the headmaster of Hogwarts
Harry Potter learned a lot of valuable lessons from his teachers.
Source: @mrswonginfifth
7. Pull up a seat
Don’t be afraid to combine all kinds of seating, from loveseats to tree stumps, in your fifth grade classroom!
Source: @jenee369
8. Map out the school year
This colorful map helps with geography and adds a pop of color to your fifth grade classroom.
Source: @talesfrom210
9. Revamp your behavior chart
Use some emojis to make handling school behavior a little less intimidating.
Source: @teachwithbree
10. Introduce a wall of knowledge
Break down concepts and mechanics into steps that students can review in a glance.
Source: @mrswonginfifth‘s wall of knowledge.
11. Have fun with bulletin boards
We really love the bulletin boards that look like reclaimed wood. So rustic!
Source: @beckyn3
12. Get a little punny
Life can be so hard — bring some silliness to your fifth grade classroom!
Source: @teachwithbree‘s puns
13. Make use of your space
Start small, be organized, and gradually build your collection!
Source: @littletexanlearners
14. Tame the workbook madness
Add labels to simple, affordable storage bins and you’ve conquered the clutter!
Source: @5th_inthe_rockies
15. Create a bean bag library
Bean bags chairs are an affordable, flexible, and comfortable option for your reading nook.
Source: @puttingitalltogetherin1st
16. Share words of wisdom
Every week, change the message and set the tone in your fifth grade classroom.
Source: @mrscessacsclass
17. Welcome new students
A welcoming door helps students step into your classroom and leave the rest of the world behind them.
Source: @teachinspirencreate
18. Offer a natural landscape
Not into neons, pastels, or rainbows? Try a neutral, natural theme in your fifth grade classroom.
Source: @eleneweisstpt
19. Add a pop of color
Combine black and white decor with one cool, brightly-colored accent piece to add personality!
Source: @classroomlibraries
Plus check out the ultimate checklist for setting up your fifth grade classroom.
If these ideas inspired you, join our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group and come talk with the very teachers who suggested them!
