Lesson Plan

Cozy Reading Corner Plan

Students will learn how to design and personalize a reading corner in their classroom by collaborating on layout, selecting comfort elements, and reflecting on features that support reading. By lesson end, each student will create a visual plan for their ideal reading corner.

A well-designed reading corner fosters literacy, comfort, and community, making reading more engaging. This activity empowers students with ownership of their space and promotes a positive reading culture.

Audience

7th Grade

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Interactive planning and collaborative design

Materials

Design Your Cozy Corner Presentation, - Reading Corner Planning Worksheet, - Reading Corner Reflection Prompts, and - Chart Paper and Markers

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Review the Design Your Cozy Corner Presentation
Print enough copies of the Reading Corner Planning Worksheet for each student
Prepare and lay out chart paper and markers for group sharing
Familiarize yourself with the Reading Corner Reflection Prompts to guide discussion

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Display the Design Your Cozy Corner Presentation
Define “reading corner” and discuss its benefits: comfort, focus, community
Show examples of inviting reading corners
Prompt students to think about elements they enjoy in a cozy space

Step 2

Brainstorming

8 minutes

Distribute the Reading Corner Planning Worksheet
In pairs, students sketch their ideal corner layout and list materials (pillows, shelves, lighting)
Encourage creativity: colors, themes, seating options
Circulate to support ideas and prompt deeper thinking

Step 3

Design Sharing

10 minutes

Combine pairs into small groups of 4–6
On chart paper, each group posts their favorite elements and a rough layout
Use markers to highlight common themes and unique ideas
Groups present their chart to the class, explaining choices

Step 4

Reflection

7 minutes

Distribute the Reading Corner Reflection Prompts
Individually, students answer questions: What feature matters most? How will it help your reading?
Invite volunteers to share one insight with the class
Collect reflections for assessment and future planning

Slide Deck

Design Your Cozy Reading Corner

Creating a personal, inviting space for reading and relaxation.

Welcome everyone! Today we’re going to explore how to design a cozy reading corner in our classroom. Explain the lesson objective: by the end of today, you’ll each sketch and share your ideal reading space.

What Is a Reading Corner?

A designated area in the classroom where students can curl up with a book in comfort and focus.

Define for students what a reading corner is and why it matters. Ask: “Have you ever had a favorite spot to read? What made it special?”

Why Have a Reading Corner?

Comfort: Soft seating and pillows make reading enjoyable.
Focus: A quiet, dedicated spot reduces distractions.
Community: A shared space that brings readers together.

Highlight the three main benefits. Encourage students to think of examples or share experiences.

Inspiring Examples

[Image 1: Beanbag nook with string lights]
[Image 2: Bookshelf alcove with cushions]
[Image 3: Corner tent with rugs and pillows]

Show real-life photos of different reading corners. Prompt students to notice colors, seating, lighting, and decor.

Your Turn to Brainstorm

Think about:

What seating options feel coziest?
Which colors or themes inspire you?
What lighting makes reading easier?
Use these questions to plan your design.

Guide students into the brainstorming phase. Explain they’ll work in pairs to sketch their ideas.

Next Steps

Grab your Reading Corner Planning Worksheet (#corner-planning-worksheet).
Sketch your ideal layout and list needed items.
Share your design with a small group.

Walk through the next steps and materials. Remind students to complete their worksheets and prepare to share.

Worksheet

Reading Corner Planning Worksheet

Use this worksheet to sketch and plan the key elements of your ideal classroom reading corner. Be as detailed as you can!

1. Sketch Your Ideal Reading Corner

Draw the layout of your reading corner. Show where furniture, shelves, lighting, and décor will go.

2. Materials & Items List

List at least five items you will include to make your corner comfy, functional, and inviting.

___________________________ – ______________________________________
___________________________ – ______________________________________
___________________________ – ______________________________________
___________________________ – ______________________________________
___________________________ – ______________________________________

3. Design Rationale

For each design choice, explain how it supports comfort, focus, or community in the reading corner.

Choice #1: ____________________________
How it helps: ______________________________________________________
Choice #2: ____________________________
How it helps: ______________________________________________________
Choice #3: ____________________________
How it helps: ______________________________________________________

4. Theme & Color Scheme

What overall theme or color palette will you choose? Why are these a good fit for your reading corner?

When you’re finished, prepare to share your sketch and ideas with your partner in the brainstorming activity. Good luck and have fun designing!

Reading

Reflection Prompts

Use these prompts to think about your reading corner design and its impact. Write your responses in the space provided.

1. Which feature matters most to you? Why?

2. How will this feature help you focus on reading?

3. In what way does your design promote comfort?

4. How does your layout encourage a sense of community among readers?

5. If you could add one more element to improve your corner, what would it be and why?

6. What did you learn from collaborating and sharing ideas with your classmates?

When you’re done, be ready to share one reflection with the class.

Cozy Reading Corner

Stephanie Nourrice