esearch shows that it takes information, imagination, motivation, and effort to create an enriched environment (Diamond & Hopson,

1998). Research shows that the brain is malleable or plastic, continuing to grow new connections in response to normal development processes and experiences (Huttenlocher, 2002). Research shows that our brains are composed of about one hundred billion brain cells organized into millions of neural networks (Jensen, 2000). "Every human being is driven to search for meaning. . . . Its never too late to begin enriching the brain; the magic dendrite trees can branch and grow, enlarging the cortex, throughout life" Marian Diamond The primary purpose of the brain is to survive, and in order to survive, a brain needs opportunities for continual growth. Using stimulus and learning as basic drives, the brain naturally seeks out what stimulates it, what is meaningful to it, what provides flexibility, emotion, choice, and an absence of threat. Classroom teachers can work with how the brain takes in and stores information by providing what the brain needs to survive. One of the ways the brain survives is by keeping itself nurtured and growing. Learning provides the brain with the ability to keep changing and growingwhich is known as neural plasticity. As the brain learns, dendrites grow and the brain actually changes shape. The brain also needs nurturinggood nutrition and water. It learns best in a safe environment, with novelty and choice. The brain needs learning and knowledge to survive, so one of its primary functions is to seek learning. Teachers are in an ideal position to satisfy the cravings of our students brains. Create Enriching Environments That Enhance Student Learning When we hear the word enriching relative to a school environment, most of us think of additional activities or lessons that improve student understanding or enhance what students are learning. Brain researcher Marian Diamond has extensively researched the value of offering enriching environments to learners. Her research finds that in four days, dendritic growth as a result of an enriching environment occurs, and in four days, dendritic death due to lack of stimulation occurs. By continually creating enriching environments for our students, we ensure that students are learning and using their brains to the best of their abilities. There are many ways that you can enrich the learning environment for your students. Create an Environment of Emotional Support Students need safe and supportive learning environments. When students feel mentally or physically uncomfortable, their brains focus on those conditions rather than on learning. You can foster an environment of positive emotional support by continually offering opportunities for students to get to know one another, and by getting to know each of your students. Support student comments when they are appropriate. Rather than stopping after a comment like Thats right, add a little more: Thats right. The characters in the story are good at taking turns, just like you and Valerie did on the swings earlier today. Support can also come in written form: This essay shows much improvement, with well -developed paragraphs and a clear thesis statement validates student work more than Great job. A little extra goes a long way. When students are comfortable and supported in their learning environments, the dendrites in their brains can expand and take in more information.