Arranging the classroom into rows facing each other facilitates large group discussion. I call it "the Security Council" although it might be better to call it "the Harkness Table," which is a teaching technique used at elite east coast boarding schools. Classes are small, so 8 to 12 students sit at an oval table with their instructor who uses the Socratic method and discussion to explore content.
Pros and Cons of the "Security Council"
An instructional approach that uses a great deal of discussion is especially useful for the social sciences, or with upper elementary (5th and 6th grade) students when encouraging students to form arguments and defend them is an age appropriate goal.
Pros
- The U shape is excellent for a teacher who moves when he or she teaches.
- A teacher can get close to all the students easily when needing to confer or have a word to redirect a student.
- It creates a place for "fish bowls" where a group discussion can be modeled by a small group.
- The U shape limits opportunities for off task discussion.
- Pairing for brainstorming or projects are easy.
Cons
- Students have to turn to face the board. (See the wide version on the next page.)
- It does not readily facilitate group tasks without moving desks.
- It creates opportunities for students to have off task discussions in the corners.
