Classroom Management
Classroom Expectations
Setting classroom expectations on the first day is a way of establishing a clear foundation of what is expected from everyone. It sets the mood for the rest of the year and helps create a sense of structure, security, and consistency in the classroom.
By clearly outlining rules and routines from the beginning, students gain an understanding of how to interact respectfully with their peers, follow instructions, and actively participate in a focused learning environment. This strategy helps reduce confusion, limit disruptions, and creates more opportunities for effective teaching and learning.
Culture/environment
Creating an environment where students feel safe and heard is one of the best things you can do for them. Having a positive and inclusive culture and environment in the art classroom is important because it encourages students to feel safe expressing themselves and experimenting with new ideas without fear of judgment. It promotes creativity, builds confidence, and inspires students to engage more deeply with the artistic process. When students feel supported and valued, they are more likely to take risks, try new techniques, and enjoy the act of creating.
One key aspect of creating a good culture and environment is by building relationships with your students. This is important because it creates a foundation of trust, support, and mutual respect. When students feel connected to their teacher, they are more likely to feel comfortable taking creative risks, asking for help, and expressing themselves freely. Art often involves personal expression, and having a positive, supportive relationship encourages students to share their ideas and emotions through their work.
Choice/Student Accountability
Giving students choice in the art they create empowers students to take ownership of their learning and creative processes. When students are given the opportunity to make choices about their art—whether it’s selecting materials, deciding on themes, or determining the direction of a project—they feel more invested in their work.
Student accountability teaches responsibility and encourages self-reflection. When students are accountable for their choices and work, they learn how to set goals, manage their time, and work through challenges. It also helps them develop problem-solving skills and a sense of pride in their accomplishments.
Differentiation
It's important for a teacher to be aware that not all students are the same. The saying "We all come in different shapes and sizes, and that's fine by me" (Kristin Scott Thomas) also applies for how we learn. We all have different ways of processing and gathering information and its vital as a teacher to adapt and accommodate students' needs in order to achieve success. As someone who spent her entire school career on an IEP, I understand the frustration teachers not having the ability to adapt to my needs and I never want to make a student feel like they can't learn something simply because they learn differently.