How to Divide a Classroom with Portable Walls
Overview
In today’s dynamics in the field of education, flexibility in classroom design has become fundamental. With growing student numbers, different teaching methods, and the need for multi-use spaces, schools need adaptable solutions. Portable walls provide a handy and low-cost way to divide a classroom into working zones without permanent changes. In this guide, we will look at how to divide a classroom using portable walls. Additionally, we will talk about why they’re a game-changer for modern schools.
Why Choose Portable Walls over Permanent Walls?
Portable walls are versatile tools built to solve the issues faced by today’s classrooms. Here are some key benefits:
- Flexibility: Portable walls let you create different zones fast, allowing classrooms to serve multiple uses all day.
- Low-Cost: Skip expensive renovations or permanent partitions. Portable walls offer a cost-effective space-management solution.
- Quick Setup: Most portable walls can be easily installed without special tools or skills.
- Noise Control: Portable walls made with specialist acoustic materials absorb sound to reduce echo and reverberation, minimising distractions in the classroom.
- Reusable and Mobile: Move them between rooms or areas as needed, boosting their value.
Portable walls not only optimise space but also improve the learning environment. Teachers can build custom zones for varied activities, encouraging both teamwork and focused individual work.
How to Divide a Classroom Into Two
Follow these steps to divide your classroom simply:
Measure the Space
Start by measuring the size of the room. Accurate measures help in picking walls that fit perfectly, avoiding gaps. Also, consider the wall height for good privacy and separation. PPA’s portable walls are available in three different sizes: 1.83m, 2m or 2.31m. The tallest option will offer the highest level of sound absorption, however if you need to move the partition between classrooms frequently, the 1.83m or 2m high option will be best as these can fit through a standard doorway.
Watch for obstacles like windows, doors, or built-in furniture that may affect placement.
Identify Your Needs
Figure out the main use of each zone. Are you creating study zones, quiet spaces, or team areas? Knowing what each zone needs will guide your choice of portable walls. For example, a testing area might need soundproof walls, while group work zones need more open dividers.
Pick the Right Portable Walls
Portable walls come in various materials, types, and features. Think about these options:
- Folding Walls: Light and great for quick setups in smaller rooms that may require different designs of configuration
- Sliding Walls: Extendable in a straight line only, these walls are ideal for larger spaces that need to be divided in two often.
- Portable walls with a fabric finish: An excellent choice if you need to divide space and use the partition as a data wall. The fabric finish can display work with thumb tacks or pins.
- Portable walls with a polycarbonate finish: Ideal for environments that require frequent cleaning. This finish is also suitable for displaying work using blu tack or velcro dots.
Factor in strength, ease of care, and looks when picking your walls.
Plan the Layout
Draw a layout for the divided space. Ensure there’s enough room for movement, desks, and gear in each zone. Place desks, chairs, and storage wisely to make the most of the space. For instance, put quiet study areas away from busy corridors to limit noise.
Install the Walls
Portable walls are made for quick and simple setup. Here’s how:
- Place the walls in the chosen location.
- Secure them with locks or stabilisers if they have wheels.
- Adjust movable panels to make sure they fit properly.
Test the Setup
Walk through the new layout to check accessibility and use. Make sure the layout suits both teachers and students. Ask for feedback from students and staff to spot any problems and make fixes.
Getting the Most Out of Portable Walls
To make the most of your portable walls, use these tips:
- Use Vertical Space: Add shelves or hooks and wall-mounted storage to free up floor space.
- Label Zones: Mark each zone clearly to avoid confusion and help students find their way.
- Ensure Light Can Permeate The Room: Make sure each zone is well-lit for comfor and optimal learning.
- Use Color-Coded Walls: Choose walls in different shades to easily tell each zone apart.
These steps ensure a neat and engaging room.
Fun Uses for Divided Classrooms
Portable walls can divide a classroom into two lively learning places. Here are some fun uses:
- Team Work Zones: Set up areas for students to work together on tasks.
- Quiet Study Areas: Offer quiet spots for focused individual work.
- Activity Corners: Dedicate parts of the room for hands-on activities, like art or crafts.
- Testing Areas: Ensure privacy and reduce distractions during exams.
By dividing the classroom into zones, teachers can manage many tasks at once. This method boosts productivity and ensures all students’ needs are met.
Portable Walls for Special Needs
- Small Rooms: Small mobile folding walls are perfect for tight spaces. These walls are easy to store and set up, making them a top choice for creating working zones without cramming.
- Large Rooms: For bigger spaces, sliding operable walls or folding operable walls work best. These walls offer a higher acoustic rating, with the added flexibility of extending and retracting as needed to adapt to classroom requirements.
- Loud Places: Utilising acoustic portable walls are great for classrooms. They divide larger spaces for quieter work while absorbing excess noise to help students stay focused and cut distractions.
- Interactive Learning: Portable Walls can be incorporated into teaching techniques. Display data walls or pin large sheets of paper to write on, offering a zone for teaching or brainstorming, making them perfect for hands-on lessons.
Benefits of Using Portable Walls in a Classroom
It’s no secret that many schools have overcrowded classrooms. If you are finding it hard to manage different activities in a single room, adding portable walls will help in the following ways:
- Create separate zones for group talks, study, and activities.
- Reduce noise levels, letting students focus better.
- Boost teacher effectiveness by allowing lessons for different groups at the same time.
Not only can this improve student’s progress, but can increase both student and teacher engagement and overall happiness.
Different Uses of Classroom Dividers
Portable walls help team learning. By making zones for group talks and teamwork, students can easily share ideas and work together on projects. These walls make it easy to adjust spaces based on group size or tasks, ensuring a good spot for collaboration.
Making Tech-Friendly Zones
Technology is ever more present within Australian classrooms. Portable walls help create tech-friendly areas in classrooms. These zones can hold devices like computers, tablets, or smart boards. Organising tech gear in one place helps keep things organised and limits distractions for students when not using these tools.
Special Education
Special education rooms often need customised spaces. Portable walls offer an easy way to create quiet spots, sensory zones, or areas for one-on-one lessons. These walls can be adjusted to meet each student’s needs, ensuring a helpful and welcoming learning space.
Eco-friendliness and Sustainability
Many portable walls now come in eco-friendly materials, matching sustainable practices. Schools can pick walls made from recycled or natural materials to lower their carbon footprint. This not only helps the planet but also sets an example for students about the importance of green choices.
Why Choose Our Portable Walls?
Our portable walls stand out for their quality and dependability. Here’s what makes us different:
- Top Materials: Built to be maneuvered dailyby a single person in busy classrooms.
- Custom Options: Pick from a wide range of sizes and styles. Additionally, you can focus on colors to match your classroom aesthetics.
- Affordable Rates: Get one of the most useful products at a fair price.
- Easy Setup: The structure of these walls is made which makes them easy to install.
- First-Class Customer Service: We are here with a team of experts to help you every step of the way.
When you pick our portable walls, you are choosing a product that combines function and strength with style.
Conclusion
Portable walls offer an easy and flexible way to divide classrooms into practical learning zones. They provide a low-cost, smart solution for schools looking to make the most of their space and improve the classroom setting. Whether you want to create team areas, quiet study zones, or testing spaces, portable walls are a useful piece of flexible furniture which is necessary in today’s flexible learning environment. Check out our selection of portable walls today and see how you can change your classroom into a dynamic and adjustable learning space.
FAQs
The cost of portable walls depends on size, materials, and additional features. These walls are available in different price ranges. Contact us for a personalised quote that can fulfill your needs.
Yes, most portable walls are lightweight and equipped with wheels for smooth movement. Locking mechanisms ensure stability once positioned, making them convenient for quick and easy relocation within the classroom.
No, portable walls are designed for a user-friendly setup. They can be installed without power tools or expertise. Instructions provided with the product make it easy for anyone to assemble and adjust them as needed.
Yes, many portable walls are constructed with sound-absorbing materials that minimise noise. This makes them ideal for creating quiet zones or maintaining privacy during group activities in shared spaces.
