Rules and Procedures
What are Classroom Norms?
Classroom norms are the rules and expectations students are expected to follow within the classroom. Classroom norms have so many beneficial purposes within the learning environment. Just a few of the many uses are that classroom norms set the tone of the classroom, provide clear directions for students, decrease behavioral issues, create unity, and help everyone feel safe and respected within the learning environment. In my classroom social norms will be displayed where all students can view them as a reminder of how we should treat others and our environment.
Well Who Made Up these Rules Anyway?
In my classroom rules and norms are created for students and by students! At the start of the year we will consider and discuss how we want to feel in our classroom and what norms can create to ensure we feel that way. Students will discuss what rules they think should go on the list and which rules should not. By allowing students to create the classroom norms themselves I hope to teach students that their voices matter and they have ownership and belonging within my classroom. Students will also take more accountability for their role in our classroom society when they played a role in creating the classroom rules. Although I will have new students and new rules each year, I can expect that the rules will include the ideas of respecting each other, respecting our materials, and respecting our classroom.
Rewards and Consequences
I am a firm believer in restorative practices and affective statements /questioning so I do not give out many consequences. In my classroom, respecting and acknowledging student voices is top priority. When challenging behaviors occur students will learn from natural consequences. For example, if a student was goofing around during work time they would have to complete the work as homework. When other negative behaviors arise, those involved and I will casually discuss why the behavior occurred, how our actions affected others, and why/how we can avoid the negative behavior next time. Occasionally, these practices do not always work on their own and a behavioral strategy is necessary. Typically, when a student displays reoccurring outbursts I will begin with a positive reinforcement behavioral strategy based on that specific student’s needs. I like positive reinforcements because kids are usually highly motivated by positive reinforcers like candy, small toys, school supplies, etc,. I do not see the harm in giving students rewards for good behavior because I believe all learners need different things.
What are Procedures? Why are They Important for Teaching and Learning?
Classroom procedures are so important, they are the heartbeat of strong classroom management! Classroom procedures are routines and actions done in the classroom on a daily or weekly basis. Classroom procedures help create a smooth and organized learning environment where the students are aware of what is expected of them. Routines and procedures should be taught and modeled thoroughly and repetitively so that students can eventually complete them independently. When Classroom procedures are done right, teachers have more time to focus on learning and meaningful instruction.
Just a Few Procedures…
Classroom Jobs
There are many jobs to be done within a classroom and sometimes a classroom job requires only one helper to complete! Tasks like these will be assigned to students as classroom jobs to encourage students to take ownership over the classroom, and to help the day run smoother! Each month the job assignments will change so that students are not upset about their assigned task. A few jobs I will have: Teacher Assistant, Paper Passer, Line Leader, Light Watch, Lunch Helper, Botonist, Board Wiper, etc,.
Bathroom Signal
In my classroom, students will use this hand signal to tell me they need to use the restroom. During instruction it is easier and quicker for students to use a hand signal than it is for students to raise their hand and the teacher to assume they have a question. Hand signals ensure that all students have free access to the bathroom at all times.
Drink Signal
I will use this hand signal for students to inform me of when they need to get a drink of water. This routine is an efficient way for students to get what they need without distracting other students or myself during instruction.
Lining Up
When it is time to line up I will call students to line up by categories. This requires that all students are ready to line up and are listening quietly. I will call different traits the students have in common out to tell students to line up. For example, I might say, “can all my friends wearing blue quietly line up please?”
Timer for transitions
A strategy that works great for younger students is timer transitions. I plan to use a digital or physical timer to display for students how much time they have before he transition on to the next activity. The timer helps students adjust and prepare for the next activity.
Greetings at the Door
Everyday as students walk into the classroom I will greet them by name at the door with a smile and a hug, high-five, fist-bump, or a wave. Intentionally greeting students this way will promote positive relationships and help students feel seen within the classroom.