Norms & Rules
What are Norms and Rules?
Both norms and rules are guidelines, which direct students' actions and behavior in the classroom. Effective norms and rules will set a positive tone in the classroom and will support students' learning in a safe environment. In the classroom, norms are general guidelines (e.g. "Be respectful to others."), while rules provide specific guidelines (e.g. "Keep your hands to yourself.") Whenever possible, rules should be stated positively. (Wong, 2009, p. 151)
My Classroom Norms and Rules
Classroom Norms
A poster of the classroom norms will be displayed in the classroom. |
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Creation of Classroom Norms and Rules
According to Wong, "Clear rules promote consistency in the classroom." (2009, p.149) While teachers should guide the process, students should be involved in the creation of classroom rules. In my classroom, I plan to share the norms I have created for the classroom with my students. The students will then collaboratively devise specific rules based on these norms. If I believe students are missing any important elements from the rules, I will make suggestions to the students. After a brainstorming session, students will agree on five to seven classroom rules. Each student will sign a classroom agreement, promising to abide by the rules of the classroom. As a teacher, I will have final say in the classroom rules; if I find a problem with the rules, see a rule has become unnecessary, or feel the need for a new rule, I will revise the classroom rules. Any revision to the classroom rules will be followed by a classroom discussion and student input.
Maintaining Classroom Norms and Rules
In order for rules to effectively maintain order in the classroom, all rules should have consequences. All students will sign a classroom agreement. By signing this agreement, students are promising to follow the established classroom norms and rules. Failure to follow the classroom norms and rules will lead to a negative consequence. Consequences for breaking classroom rules will be made known to students in advance.
What If Norms and Rules Are Not Followed or Are Not Working?
There are times when classroom rules are not working to benefit effective classroom management. When rules are consistently ineffective and being broken, it will become necessary to revisit the classroom rules. A revision to the rules may be required. As the teacher, it will be my responsibility to revise the rules to better address the needs of students to improve the overall management of my classroom.
Additionally, when I find classroom rules are not working, I will seek to find the reason why. A reoccurring problem with a specific rule may be the result of an underlying problem in the classroom management. I will work to fix any management issues, while revising rules to improve the management and organization of the classroom.
Additionally, when I find classroom rules are not working, I will seek to find the reason why. A reoccurring problem with a specific rule may be the result of an underlying problem in the classroom management. I will work to fix any management issues, while revising rules to improve the management and organization of the classroom.