“There are two kinds of teachers: the kind that fills you with so much quail shot that you can't move, and the kind that just gives you a little prod behind and you jump to the skies.” -- Robert Frost
I believe that good classroom management is more than just being strict or authoritarian, and it is more than simply being organized. If I want to have my classroom run smoothly as a well-oiled learning machine, I have to set up a structured learning environment in which certain behaviors are promoted and others are discouraged.
Promoted & Discouraged Behaviors
One simple reward system I find useful is the monthly “Guess What” drawing. As the month moves along, students are rewarded with opportunities to guess the amount of items in the glass jar. When the month comes to an end, one student will win the entire contents of the jar (items split in the case of a tie). Possible items include: candy, erasers, snacks, or any sort of appropriate goodies.
Relational Rewards with Personality
Most often students are formally recognized through emails and phone calls home only when there is a disciplinary action required. Implementing the use of positive phone calls home early in the year opens up the communication lines between myself and parents while also paving the way for positive outcomes.
Behavior Book
As a means to best manage my classroom, I have chosen to seek the experience of a mature and experienced high school teacher. I have incorporated the use of the “Behavior Book, (©TheColorThief_TPT) which is comprised of a series of forms and worksheets that, when used together, allow me to create a thorough record of student behavior that will serve:
1. To have anecdotal evidence to show parents.
2. To provide documentation if you need administration to step in.
3. To keep track of student progress, keep students accountable, and encourage growth.
The book includes: Daily Notes — Student Record Sheets — Goal Setting & Behavior Contract — Contract Follow-Up — In-Class Reflection Sheet
