Creating Classroom Behavior Expectations with Students

When we set rules for behavior in class, it's really important to involve students in the process.

When students help make the rules, they feel a sense of ownership. This means they care more about their actions. Plus, it helps create a happier classroom. Here’s how students can be part of this process:

1. Sharing Thoughts on Rules

• Class Talks: Start by having open conversations about what behaviors are good and what aren’t. Let students share their ideas on rules they think are important. This helps everyone understand the guidelines better.
• Group Brainstorming: Break the class into smaller groups to come up with possible rules. Each group can share their ideas with everyone. This makes rule-making a team effort.

2. Feeling Responsible

• When students help create the rules, they're more likely to follow them. It’s like they’re responsible for their own behavior since they took part in making the rules.
• Encourage students to think of consequences for breaking rules too. This teaches them to understand how important their actions are and helps them act responsibly.

3. Getting Feedback

• After the rules are set, make sure students can give feedback on how they’re working. This can be done with regular check-ins or anonymous surveys.
• If some rules aren’t working well, let students suggest changes based on what they’ve experienced.

4. Celebrating Good Behavior

• Celebrate when students show the right behaviors. This reminds everyone how great it is to follow the rules and makes students feel proud of what they’ve done.
• Use role-playing or discussions about different situations to show how following these rules helps everyone learn better.

Getting students involved in making rules not only empowers them but also helps create a respectful and collaborative classroom.