Applying Classroom Rules and Procedures

Recognizing Positive Behavior

When students are following the classroom procedures properly, adhering to the rules and abiding by the expecations, there are certain strategies a teacher can use to positively reinforce their behavior.

Initially for adhering to rules a teacher may use verbal or non-verbal acknowledgement such as commenting on a job well done or giving the student a smile, thumbs up, or pat on the back for working well. Both of these options allow the teacher to comment on the students work, reinforce good behavior, and acknowledge following routines.

The teacher may also use tangible recognition in which a student receives points for modeling good behavior. The teacher can use apps such as Classroom Dojo to manage points for behavior and plan for rewards. There are many ways of organizing the point system and linking it to student behavior. This can be used something for both positive and negative behaviors. Positive behaviors earn and maintain points, while negative subject from the total. The point system has draw backs in that students can begin working for the points rather than for the thing itself.

The teacher can also involve the home in recognition of positive behavior. The teacher can call, email or send notes and certificates home to discuss and recognize positive developments in student behavior. This shows that the teachers values the home-school connection and wants to acknowledge to the students family the positive behavior in class.

Strategies for lack of adherence to rules and procedures

The number one strategy for dealing with classroom problems is "with-it-ness." The teacher uses a general alertness, being proactive, and using the whole space to solve and deal with problems as they emerge. Being "with it" is essential being present and actively working to manage the classroom behavior.