Intervention Strategies

Preventing Behavior Problems

Before proceeding with interventions, there are some things to consider when I have a student who is disruptive or behaves inappropriately. I complete these tasks first.

• Determine academic ability - Is the material too hard or too easy?
• Determine ability to stay on task
• Is the seating arranged in the best possible way for this student?

Exhibits Off Task Behavior

• The goal is to remain on task.
• First, the student needs to demonstrate on task behavior by sitting quietly, looking at materials, and performing a specific task for set amount of minutes.
• Gradually, I will increase the expectations as the student demonstrates success.
• Interventions:
  • Reduce auditory and visual stimuli to a level at which the student can successfully function.
  • Provide the student with a quiet place to work.
  • Provide to student with a corral or divider.
  • Provide student with earphones to wear.
  • Provide to student with shorter tasks which do not require extended amounts of attention.
  • Have the students engaged in small group activities.
  • Present tasks in the most attractive and interesting manner.
  • Provide student with a timer to be used to increase the amount of time during which he or she maintains attention.
  • Deliver a predetermined signal when the student begins to display off task behavior.
  • Communicate with parents to share information about the students progress.
  • Communicate clearly with the students the length of time he/she has to complete the assignment.
  • Provide the student with increased opportunities for help or assistance.
  • Identify the student's most efficient learning mode.
  • Maintain visibility to and from the student.
  • Make a contract with the student specifying what behavior is expected and what reinforcement will be available when the terms of the contract have been met.
  • Reinforce the student for staying on task.
  • Establish classroom rules and remind the students of the rules often.

Does not follow rules...

• The goal is to follow school rules.
• Interventions
  • Communicate with the student's parents to share information.
  • Structure the environment so that the student remains active and involved.
  • Consult with school staff and have an SST meeting.
  • Encourage the student to develop an awareness of the consequences of his/her behavior by writing down or talking through problems with may occur.
  • Provide constant, positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior.
  • Choose a peer to model following school rules for the student.

Does not follow directions...

• The goal is to follow written and verbal directions.

The student's objectives are to read all directions, verbally relay directions, and follow one-step, and follow two-step directions from the teacher..

• Gradually, I will increase the expectations as the student demonstrates success.
• Interventions...
  • Work on the first problem with the student to make sure he/she understands.
  • Have student rely the directions orally.
  • Communicate with parents to share progress.
  • Follow a less desirable task with a highly desirable one.
  • Use a behavior chart and reward for following directions.
  • Use visual cues and colors to indicate where to start and stop.