Classroom Management

I choose to motivate my students using a positive* - rather than the negative approach.

I expect my students to be on task once an assignment is given.

I expect my students to participate in whole group and small table groups.

I ask students to help each other with assignments: (e.g., Students are ex-
pected to seek assistance from their table group first, before raising a hand
to have the teacher respond).

I want each student to feel safe, secure, and cared for in my classroom.
I also want them to discover that learning is fun and rewarding. There are
times when I use music to calm and relax the environment for reading,
individual work, group activities, etc.

I expect students to follow the " Classroom Rules" -
Various consequences may apply for infractions :
   1. Sometimes a short timeout away from their group to adjust attitude.
   2. Change seating location.
   3. Phone call to parent.
   4. Contact office for assistance, (if required).
   5. Complete an Attitude or Rule Note to re-focus – And sometimes, (when behavior doesn't change), the
         form is sent home for parent to read, sign, and student to return to teacher. School discipline form
         may have to be used when behavior is to extreme.
   6. Lunch recess - sometimes a detention is implemented by our school security.

( * ) Whenever there is a reminder to a student to stay on task, (or it is necessary to remind the group that their behavior is inappropriate), I choose at least three (3) positive remarks or compliments to various students. So the ratio in my classroom is 3 to 1 – (i.e., Three positive remarks for every corrective remark).

Using the 3 to 1 technique, students learn that school is an encouraging place. When the class starts to get a little loud during projects, I begin complimenting the students that are on task and following the behavior needed at that time. Very often, this makes is unnecessary to correct the students who have strayed away from the assignment.

I am aware that each child has his or her own way of learning. Because students are often referred to as "kids," I apply that acronym in my classroom to maintain a conducive environment for them: (i.e., "KIDS" = "Knowledge In Developing Stages" – A concept that respects every child's effort).

Email: AskMrsBall@gmail.com