2d. Managing Student Behavior

• Expectations
• Monitoring of student behavior
• Response to student misbehavior

Student behavior is entirely appropriate. Students take an active role in monitoring their own behavior and/or that of other students against standards of conduct. Teacher monitoring of student behavior is subtle and preventive. The teacher’s response to student misbehavior is sensitive to individual student needs and respects students’ dignity.

I have always been a believer of the idea that student behavior is determined on the very first day of school. My students are immediately made aware of what is expected of them. Once those expectations are outlined, the students behave accordingly and understand consequences for any infractions. Working with special education teachers, I have used behavior checklists for students as well, checking in with them at the end of each day to see how behavior was in each of their classes. I also attached below a chart created by one of my colleagues where students evaluate themselves (with teacher input) at the end of each class, earning points for good behavior. Making it a quarterly competition often encourages students to redirect each other as well, reminding their friends that they may not earn their points for the day if the behavior continues. It was a system that worked really well and one that I plan to adapt in my own future classroom. Clear expectations, engaging lessons, and strong procedures take care of problems before they arise.

I have also been able to recognize when the classroom environment is not functioning as it should and modify the plan as necessary. Below is a contract that I gave to one particular class who had been struggling as a whole.