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Teaching Classroom Expectations

Establishing clear classroom expectations is crucial for a productive and respectful learning environment. When students understand what is expected of them, they can focus on academic achievement rather than worrying about behavior or discipline issues. By teaching classroom expectations early in the school year, teachers can create a culture of responsibility, respect, and trust.

Setting Clear Expectations​

Setting clear classroom expectations involves more than just posting a list of rules on the wall. It requires creating a positive learning environment that promotes student engagement, motivation, and self-discipline. Here are some strategies for teaching classroom expectations:

  • Establishing Non-Negotiables: Identify essential behaviors such as respect for others, active listening, and responsibility for one's own work.
  • Creating a Positive Learning Environment: Encourage positive relationships among students and between students and teachers by promoting empathy, kindness, and inclusivity.
  • Teaching Responsibility: Encourage students to take ownership of their learning and behavior by teaching self-regulation strategies such as goal-setting, time management, and self-monitoring.
  • Providing Opportunities for Feedback: Regularly solicit feedback from students on classroom expectations and make adjustments as needed.
  • Modeling Expected Behavior: Demonstrate the expected behaviors yourself, as students learn from observing their teachers' behavior.

Teaching Classroom Expectations​

Teaching classroom expectations is not a one-time task, but rather an ongoing process that requires continuous reinforcement. Here are some strategies for teaching classroom expectations:

  • Using Visual Reminders: Post reminders of classroom expectations in the classroom or provide handouts to students.
  • Incorporating Expectations into Lessons: Incorporate classroom expectations into lesson plans and activities to reinforce them throughout the school year.
  • Providing Opportunities for Reflection: Regularly ask students to reflect on their behavior and how it aligns with classroom expectations.
  • Recognizing Positive Behavior: Acknowledge and reward positive behaviors that align with classroom expectations.
  • Addressing Misbehavior: Address misbehavior promptly and consistently, using restorative practices such as mediation or conflict resolution.

Making Classroom Expectations Stick​

Making classroom expectations stick requires ongoing effort and commitment from teachers. Here are some strategies for making classroom expectations a long-term reality:

  • Regularly Reviewing Expectations: Regularly review classroom expectations with students to ensure they understand the expectations.
  • Providing Ongoing Feedback: Provide regular feedback to students on their behavior and how it aligns with classroom expectations.
  • Encouraging Student Ownership: Encourage students to take ownership of their learning and behavior by teaching self-regulation strategies such as goal-setting, time management, and self-monitoring.
  • Involving Students in the Process: Involve students in setting classroom expectations and making decisions about the classroom environment.