“A well-organized, well-run classroom can make a significant difference for students, regardless of their ability and background.”- Wong, p. 141
A discipline problem exists whenever a behavior interferes with the act of teaching, learning, is psychologically unsafe, and/or destroys property. In order to effectively manage discipline, you must have a system in place to acknowledge the behavior and correct it. This system must be integrated immediately on the first day of school. Students need to be informed on what your expectations as the teacher are for their behavior and performance, and what consequences lie ahead if they make the choice to resist those expectations. If a classroom does not have any sense of discipline, that could keep many of your students from learning the lesson you are presenting. Discipline is one of the most important aspects of the classroom that could make or break you as an effective teacher.
Tips to keep in mind when making and communicating rules:
- Rules are expectations of appropriate behavior
- Clearly communicate in both verbal and written form to students what you expect as appropriate behavior.
- Specific rules immediately create a work-oriented atmosphere
Ex) Rules that are specific:
Be in your seat when the bell rings
No personal grooming during class time.
Sit in your assigned seat daily
As a future educator, knowing my expectations for my students, and for myself, will help me come up with the best rules and procedures that fit my teaching style as well as communicate to my students the behavior that I deem appropriate.