How to Establish Classroom Procedures and Rules
Maintaining Classroom Organization Reduces Behavior Disruptions
Nov 2, 2009
When teachers collaborate with their students to identify the need for rules and procedures in the classroom it helps to establish an orderly and safe place for learning. When they are given the opportunity to help create the list of rules, students are more motivated to follow them. Students will understand that the rules are meant to keep them safe and help them figure out what to do.
Establishing Procedures in the Classroom
Procedures tell students how to perform routine instructional and housekeeping tasks. Effective teachers begin introducing procedures on the very first day of school and continue to teach and reinforce them throughout the year. It may be necessary to modify procedures during the school year to adapt to instructional needs or the needs of a particular class.
Examples of Classroom Procedures:
- what to do when students arrive in the morning
- how to use learning centers
- lining up
- using the pencil sharpener or water fountain
- appropriate times to use the bathroom
- getting the teacher's attention
- what to do when students finish an assignment
Establishing Rules in the Classroom
Rules tell students how they are expected to behave. They tell them what to do and keep them safe. Effective teachers establish and discuss a few, usually only three to six, broad rules that are in effect throughout the entire school year. Rules should be worded positively and posted in the room so they can be referred to when necessary.
Examples of Classroom Rules:
- Treat all people and materials with kindness and respect.
- Listen and follow directions the first time they are given.
- Use hand and feet for helping, not for hurting.
- Help keep our school clean.
- Try your best.
Reinforcing Classroom Rules
Just as the rules for the classroom are clearly defined, teachers should also define the consequences for following and breaking the rules. Positive consequences are rewards as a result of students abiding by the rules. Negative consequences are the punishments students receive when they break the rules.
Examples of Rewards and Positive Consequences:
- praise
- stickers
- positive note home
- choice of a special activity
- lunch with the teacher
- prize box
Examples of Punishments and Negative Consequences:
- time out
- missing part of recess
- exclusion from a favored activity
- extra assignment
- phone call home
- sent to the principal's office
Providing effective discipline is one of a teacher's most important and challenging jobs. By establishing rules and procedures, and reinforcing them, teachers motivate their students toward success without the students feeling frustrated. It is very important to remember to model, practice and role play the rules and situations that may arise in the classroom. If students are provided with the language to help them solve problems and have clear expectations, there are fewer behavior problems.
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