Have students be involved in created classroom rules and then sign a "contract"
Scaffold student behavior by presenting various scenarios and have students identify appropriate behavior
If a situation occurs, talk through consequences with students and keep a positive attitude by displaying how to grow and improve behavior for the future
Preventive discipline measures
Create engaging lessons and have clear rules, rewards, consequences, and procedures
Individual conferences with students regularly to check in and develop meaningful relationships
Building rapport with students - quickly learn students' names and demonstrate a sincere interest for each student
Appropriately praise students and foster a growth mindset for students
Communicate with parents regularly to praise the positive qualities of their child and to potentially address areas of concern
My philosophy of classroom management includes aspects from Richard Curwin’s Disciple with Dignity approach and Lee Canter’s Assertive Discipline approach to create my own game plan of classroom management. Combining the best aspects of Curwin’s and Cantor’s methods better assist me in creating a healthy and positive classroom environment. I begin my practice by greeting students individually and displaying an authentic interest in their lives. Theoretically, students will reciprocate that respect in the classroom. Establishing positive rapport with students from the first day and continuing to build on that relationship throughout the year is essential to classroom management.
It has been said that "students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." My classroom management is built on creating a positive environment in which students can excel. The act of praising appropriate and desired behaviors has proven effective for me. Praising students who are acting appropriately produces a healthier, positive environment. When students feel valued and have meaning in a classroom, they are much more likely to participate and be properly engaged. Therefore, beginning with directing students to compile classroom rules and expectations under teacher supervision gives them a sense of responsibility to abide by the rules. Creating an environment for students to have a voice and respectfully contribute is essential to promoting appropriate behaviors.
Effective classroom management must also focus on making interesting and engaging lessons for students. According to Curwin, it is important for students to contribute. Interactive lessons and alternative assessments support the students in taking ownership and pride in their learning. Adolescents struggle to find a positive outlet for their feelings. Therefore, I plan on giving the students opportunity to express their feelings in a safe and healthy manner to avoid inappropriate outburst and conflict. Furthermore, Canter highlights the importance of utilizing the Behavior Management Cycle at the beginning of the school year. This cycle includes giving explicit directions, using behavioral narration, and taking corrective action for remediating unacceptable behavior. Prevention especially is critical to the success of managing student behavior. Explicit directions include describing the acceptable verbal behavior, movement, and participation in the classroom.
Ultimately, my classroom ‘game plan’ is designed to create a healthy classroom community for students to be engaged and feel valued!