Manages Classroom Climate and Operation
I feel that classroom discipline is a critical component of creating a classroom climate where learning can thrive. Providing my students with an environment that is conducive to learning is an area in which I take great pride. From the time that students come to my classroom for exploratory during their freshman year, I make my expectations in this regard very clear. One of the first things that I do is to explain my classroom rules and the way in which they apply to the exploratory experience.
My five simple rules are:
- Be Prompt - Be on time and ready to learn when class begins.
- Be Prepared - Be shop ready when you arrive and know your due dates.
- Be a Problem Solver - Correct problems quickly and peacefully before they escalate.
- Be a Polite and Positive Participant - Speak in a normal tone of voice and listen attentively.
- Be Productive - Turn in work on time and always do your best.
My philosophy has always been to maintain a classroom atmosphere that is 100% in compliance with the school policies. For example, at Minuteman, earphones are not allowed. This is a fact that is clearly stated in the student handbook. However, many students ask if it is okay for them to listen to music while they work. Many teachers allow this. I, on the other hand, refuse to allow their use within my class unless it is for strictly academic purposes. Instead, I encouraged the students to circulate a petition to have the school committee change the handbook to allow for their use at the discretion of the teacher. By consistently adhering to the school's policies, I free myself from constantly being put in the position of arbiter and can fully devote my time to instructing or supervising the activities of my students.
Once the classroom climate has been set, discipline becomes a non-issue. Students who are hard at work do not have the time or the inclination to become discipline problems or distractions to their classmates. By holding students accountable, I help them along on the road to being contributing members of society. My students are accustomed to established routines and will immediately get to work on the task at hand whether it be one that they are finishing from the previous day or a new one found listed on the day's agenda.
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Standard C - Manages Classroom Climate and Operation |
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Indicators |
Evidence |
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1. Creates an
environment that is conducive to learning. 2. Creates a physical environment appropriate
to a range of learning activities. 3. Maintains appropriate standards of
behavior, mutual respect, and safety. 4. Manages classroom routines and procedures without loss of significant instructional time. |
(1 a.) Formal Observation Report (Highlighted)
(1, 2, 3, 4) Formal Observation Report (Highlighted) |