Use My 7 Basic Classroom Rules
and Manage Your Classroom Effectively!

"Do we haf to have classroom rules?" is what some students always ask.

Establishing classroom rules and expectations the first week of school is crucial! It sets the tone of how you want your class to run and let's the students know what's expected of them early in the year.

Keep in mind that students need and want discipline! "They are NOT your friend!" You are the adult and they are the students.

I always started off the year stern and firm. Later on I eased up and wasn't sooo stern. BUT, always firm. Set boundaries and establish the consequences of breaking the rules. Students need to know where they stand. Some will want to "cross that line" - to test you - even up to the end of the year. NEVER ALLOW THAT TO HAPPEN!

* Make sure your students know the consequences of breaking the class rules before hand and always follow through.

* Be consistent, stand by what you say and always make sure the consequences are realistic - not, like this - "Class, if you misbehave again, no more gym for the rest of the year." Don't punish the whole class for a few misbehaved students!

* Make sure the punishment fits the crime - not like this - "Forget to complete your grammar sheet for homework and you'll have to 3 extra math sheets".

When I introduce the concept of class rules, we first discuss the reasons for the rules, rules they have to follow at home and at school, even traffic rules. As a class we brainstorm what the rules in the classroom should be and then I present my rules which are usually quite similar to their ideas.

They are then printed neatly and colourfully on chart paper and displayed somewhere in the classroom, visible to the students to refer to and always followed.

But please, please don't go crazy on the number of rules. One class I visited as a college supervisor had 15 rules - way too many, making it hard to remember and follow. They are like your own "Code of Behaviour".

Again, it's up to you to come up with the classroom rules and expectations you want for you and your students. You may read or hear about many "classroom rules" examples but here are my 7 basic ones:

1. Follow the instructions the first time they are given.

2. Raise your hand and wait for permission to speak.

3. Remain seated unless you have permission.

4. Keep your hands, feet and other objects to yourself.

5. No swearing, teasing or put downs.

6. Always use manners and beware of other peoples' feelings.

7. Always finish your homework and bring it back the next morning.

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