This article reminded me of the rules that would be given to camp counselors or leaders of after- school activities. The rules for children and methods of dealing with children’s behavior were stated both simply and directly. The rules 1-3 are exactly the same rules in my two son’s elementary classrooms. The rules are also very similar to the classroom rules in my classroom of 8th graders. We, as a class, set the rules for the class. The rules are usually very similar in wording and order. In my class, on the second day of the school year, we start the process of making the rules. Students write up to 5 possible rules on a quarter sheet of paper. Then they discuss their rules with another student, seated nearby. Then, we develop a class list based on the pair discussions. By the fourth day the lists are finalized and codified, by being posted in the room. One thing we do is model instances of following the rules and instances of not following the rules. This is fun and really helps students to clearly understand the rules.
The article endorsed positively focused management techniques. Students must know what is expected of them. Repeatedly expressing the expectations and how they had not been met during a behavior issue. This is a method we use with our boys at home. I think it works well, especially when discussion occurs. The methods were good with regard to redirection, immediate feedback, praise, logical consequences, and documentation. I utilize these in my classroom, for as I see it, a well managed classroom. I have many little devices I use- green quarter sheets for students to explain rule broken and how they could have different, pink sticky notes as a nonverbal redirection tool, and notebooks as evaluation of completion before advancing in class or lab work. Another item I find very important, from the article is the idea of consistency with student choices and the rules and consequences.
The methods of getting students are good too. For both, younger and older students. I have used many of them in my classes. I have not used “pass it on.” I also agree with the bold faced statement: Yelling is not an acceptable method...” The clap is one that I find works well, is easy, fun and almost all young students know it and will fall into rhythm and be quiet. I have used it here at Merry Lea, with positive results.
I love listening to your teaching methods. Even though we have talked about how sense of self plays a bigger role than techniques, there are definitely methods that work with kids. Having them help make the rules really gives them a sense of ownership. So much of a kid's life is not determined by them and they often find themselves in power struggles with adults to be heard. I want to get to that point where I feel confident in having a few more tricks up my sleeve so behavior management is not the first thought in my head. I see you really relating and enjoying your groups because you do have good management skills. That makes a huge difference! I will be watching you closely during this practicum.
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