In my classroom, I always thought it was important to stress RESPECT. It sort of encompasses everything. If they respect themselves, then they'll respect their peers. If they respect their peers, then they'll respect their peers' work. If they respect the work, then they'll respect the classroom environment.
I always started each semester by reviewing my terms of respect in writing and verbally. I believe that if you are consistent, then there's no wiggle-room for arguments.
Yes Michelle, "respect" says it all. With the youngest students, I "blow" imaginary space bubbles and climb inside them. I make up rhythmic chants such as, "stay in your seat unless I ask you to get up" and "keep your hands and your feet in your own space".
Michelle you said it all! Respect is key! It's rewarding to see how it retains consistency year to year (when you're fortunate enough to be in the same school, that is!). Establishing those guidelines from day one lets the students know what you expect of them. I've seen how a quick review -even after the slightest break -helps to keep students on task.
First thing I thought of was respect. I would also think about being fair and consistent-and following the golden rule-treating others how you would want to be treated (or how you would want your own children treated)
Thanks for the updates...How do your students know these "guidelines"? How do you present these ideas to your kids? What do you do if they refuse to follow these guidelines?
I work to keep my students engaged to avoid behavior issues. My rules are presented to my students at the beginning of the semester and reiterated whenever a student needs a reminder. The rules are posted on my wall for everyone to see. If a rule is broken, the student will face appropriate disciplinary action. E.g.1 Student late to class = detention........e.g.2 Student throws clay = suspension from using art materials for a class. My student would have a written assignment for that time period. The suspension would continue until the assignment was completed! You have to get tough :)
In my classroom environment, I rely on clear procedures and remaining consist through the year. I am tough, but fair, and consitant. If I have a tough class, or a great class that turns tough, I change and critique what I do in the environment or with lessons/scaffolding activities to encourage a positive turn around in behavior. Modeling respect and the "golden rule" is also extremely important. I try to command respect with my students, rather than demand it. Oh, and the ablitiy to develop fun activities, and moments to laugh (and sometimes laugh at yourself) is good once the class is established!
I think it is important for students to know what to expect as well as what is expected of them...
I've always thought that the best surprise is NO SURPRISE !!!
I am adding a clapping excerise that gets students thinking about rhythm. This exercise also helps students begin listening more carefully... thanks to our Mentor!!! :-).
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ReplyDeleteIn my classroom, I always thought it was important to stress RESPECT. It sort of encompasses everything.
ReplyDeleteIf they respect themselves, then they'll respect their peers. If they respect their peers, then they'll respect their peers' work. If they respect the work, then they'll respect the classroom environment.
I always started each semester by reviewing my terms of respect in writing and verbally. I believe that if you are consistent, then there's no wiggle-room for arguments.
Welcome back everyone! Countdown til summer!
Yes Michelle, "respect" says it all. With the youngest students, I "blow" imaginary space bubbles and climb inside them. I make up rhythmic chants such as, "stay in your seat unless I ask you to get up" and "keep your hands and your feet in your own space".
ReplyDeleteFYI... I just found a great little site that isn't blocked by the district filters(well today anyways..)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.proteacher.com/030000.shtml
Let me know what you think...
Michelle you said it all! Respect is key! It's rewarding to see how it retains consistency year to year (when you're fortunate enough to be in the same school, that is!).
ReplyDeleteEstablishing those guidelines from day one lets the students know what you expect of them. I've seen how a quick review -even after the slightest break -helps to keep students on task.
Integrity- meaning you are doing the right thing even if no one is looking at you.
ReplyDeleteFirst thing I thought of was respect. I would also think about being fair and consistent-and following the golden rule-treating others how you would want to be treated (or how you would want your own children treated)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the updates...How do your students know these "guidelines"? How do you present these ideas to your kids? What do you do if they refuse to follow these guidelines?
ReplyDeleteI work to keep my students engaged to avoid behavior issues. My rules are presented to my students at the beginning of the semester and reiterated whenever a student needs a reminder. The rules are posted on my wall for everyone to see. If a rule is broken, the student will face appropriate disciplinary action. E.g.1 Student late to class = detention........e.g.2 Student throws clay = suspension from using art materials for a class. My student would have a written assignment for that time period. The suspension would continue until the assignment was completed! You have to get tough :)
ReplyDeleteIn my classroom environment, I rely on clear procedures and remaining consist through the year. I am tough, but fair, and consitant. If I have a tough class, or a great class that turns tough, I change and critique what I do in the environment or with lessons/scaffolding activities to encourage a positive turn around in behavior. Modeling respect and the "golden rule" is also extremely important. I try to command respect with my students, rather than demand it. Oh, and the ablitiy to develop fun activities, and moments to laugh (and sometimes laugh at yourself) is good once the class is established!
ReplyDeleteI think it is important for students to know what to expect as well as what is expected of them...
ReplyDeleteI've always thought that the best surprise is NO SURPRISE !!!
I am adding a clapping excerise that gets students thinking about rhythm. This exercise also helps students begin listening more carefully... thanks to our Mentor!!! :-).