When students know what you expect from them, it is easier to teach your material. It's not too late to reconsider your rules and procedures.
What is a rule? What is a procedure?
Rules refer to general expectations or standards for classroom behavior. The purpose is to create a strong expectation what is or is not acceptable. Some examples are:
- Bring materials to class
- come to class on time
- Listen to students when they are talking
Ideally, you should start teaching your rules on the first day of school and continue reviewing them throughout the year putting a special emphasis on the first month.
Procedures refer to a specific activity and methods for accomplishing daily routines.
Some examples are:
- policy for handing in late assignments
- policy for coming in late
- policy for working in groups
How should you go about teaching rules?
- Say the rule clearly.
- Discuss why the rule is important
- Provide both positive and negative examples of the rule
- Don’t overdo this one, but discuss the consequences
- You should have a few rules (3-4 should be enough)
Teaching Procedures
- Explain the procedure and the reason for it.
- Demonstrate or describe it.
- Provide ample opportunities to practice
- Give feedback whenever necessary
Remember the three R’s: review, repeat, reinforce.Your staff is a viable place to bring up the objectives and rules that you wish to bring into your class.
