Horizontal rows are useful for independent or pair work and encourage pupils to focus on the teacher however are not as effective for group discussion. Cluster style seating ARRANGEMENTS are effective for group discussion and encourage pupils’ interaction, allowing pupils to talk to each other, share materials and work together on group tasks. However, teachers need to ensure that TIME is spent on task. The Fishbowl style can foster group cohesion by focusing attention on the ways that a particular group might work together more PRODUCTIVELY.

Pupils sit close together in a circle in the centre of the room while the rest of the pupils stand at the back of the classroom and observe the group discussion. The seminar style often features a ‘U’ shape formation and is used in secondary, further and higher EDUCATION. It allows space for teacher and PUPIL presentations using interactive whiteboards, but also provides opportunities for small group work by turning chairs around.

Horizontal rows are useful for independent or pair work and encourage pupils to focus on the teacher however are not as effective for group discussion. Cluster style seating arrangements are effective for group discussion and encourage pupils’ interaction, allowing pupils to talk to each other, share materials and work together on group tasks. However, teachers need to ensure that time is spent on task. The Fishbowl style can foster group cohesion by focusing attention on the ways that a particular group might work together more productively.

Pupils sit close together in a circle in the centre of the room while the rest of the pupils stand at the back of the classroom and observe the group discussion. The seminar style often features a ‘U’ shape formation and is used in secondary, further and higher education. It allows space for teacher and pupil presentations using interactive whiteboards, but also provides opportunities for small group work by turning chairs around.