The Joys of a Seating Chart

34 7th graders in a small, dark, internal classroom was not a wise decision. After trying several seating arrangements I have found a winner. How do I know it's a winner? It is silent in my classroom! They are working on a rough draft and for once in their life, all 34 of their little mouths are shut. Well except for the kid in the back corner who writes with his tongue hanging out. So peaceful! Yet, I don't get my hopes up because when I start the class discussion in 5 minutes the 3-ring circus will come back to my classroom and I will once again go home with a headache.