Think about how you want your classrooms to operate and then develop a set of rules and procedures to meet classroom and school expectations. The key is to always be consistent!
Class Contracts-Write a class contract with your students. The contract should be behaviors that the teacher and all students agree on.
Think about the IB learner profile and Attitudes when creating the contract. After the contract is written, have all students sign the contract. Post the contract in your classroom where everyone can see it as a reminder. You may also want to make copies for students to keep in their journals, taped to their desk, post it on your website, etc...
Procedures apply to specific instructional routines or housekeeping tasks such as: using the bathroom or water fountain, distributing and collecting materials or assignments, getting the teacher’s attention, lining up, moving within the classroom or to other school areas, writing the agenda for the day/week, etc...
Develop a reasonable system for consistently reinforcing the class contract, rules and procedures. Be sure to which include positive feedback and rewards for good behavior, and fair and appropriate consequences for inappropriate behavior.
Establish a hierarchy of consequences.
A hierarchy of consequences might range from: 1-establishing eye contact, moving closer to the student, to 2-having the student re-state the broken rule, conferencing with the student, withholding a privilege, note home, to (3) contacting the parents, behavior contract or visiting the office.
Small Group Management
Students should always be engaged in meaningful tasks while you are working with another group. Consider using a system like the daily5, CAFE, or Debbie Diller work stations, etc..
Each student should know exactly what to do while they are working in a small group.
If a student needs help, have a system in place so they do not interrupt the small group you are working with. (Ask 3 before me, where can you find the answer around the room? (bulletin board, chart, etc.., ask a neighbor or expert, hand signals such as 1=restroom, 2=question, 3=out of seat, etc...)
Always Be on the Move
When working with a small group, frequently scan the entire class. This action sends cut-off signals to others who may want to disrupt the class. If you are not working with a small group, move around the room and monitor and check for understanding.
Interact Directly
Ask, “Sandy, are you finished with your assignment?” “Sam, why are you away from your desk?”
Target Misbehavior
Blaming the wrong student for a rule infraction can result in students sensing the teacher doesn’t know what’s going on. Always get the facts from all involved parties.
Locate your desk, work areas and instructional area where you can see all of the students all of the time.
Avoid placing centers and work areas in “blind corners” where you will not be able to monitor adequately.