Structure
One of the issues we are faced with in implementing constructivism is how much structure is desirable or necessary for children to be productive and engaged in exploring big ideas.
What is structure? Structure is a system of constraints, limits, rules, or guidelines that surround activity. Structure can be implicit or explicit. Structure is provided by you in the form of directions, rules, or tasks. Structure is provided by the physical environment in term of what kinds of activities are possible or necessary in the physical space. Structure is also provided by peers in terms of their behaviors, expectations, and desires. And all of these aspects of structure interact. For example, either you could communicate rules for the uses of materials or the behavior of peers in a classroom could make certain activities impossible.