Classroom Rules – a Lesson for Behavior Improvement
by GetEnglishLessons on 09/07/09 at 3:01 pm
How about starting the semester with one different topic in the lesson: BEHAVIOR?
This lesson will help students understand and reflect upon their behavior and their classroom roles and will no doubt, create a steady atmosphere of trust and respect in the classroom.
The lesson will take more or less time depending on your classroom settings and depending on your own personal view of the lesson.
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Class Contract
1- Start with a list of Do’s and Don’t. Have rules for students and rules for teachers.
2 – Students discuss and write their ideas in pairs. If the class is composed of beginners allow use of L1. With more advanced students, demand more complex structures such as: is, are not allowed to, must – must not, have right to, have no right to, may not, should – should not, is forbidden.
3 – Students share their ideas with the class.
4- Teacher takes students’ notes and put them together in order to make a contract.
5- Teacher prints a copy of this and brings it on the next class. All students read it and have to sign.
6- Put up on a wall in the classroom so as everyone can see.
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Since the first day, establish order and give clear instructions as classroom routines. (no bubble gum, no food, no drinking water and going to the toilet when is really necessary.) From learning experinces students can identify things as they view are problems and things they want improvement. Allow them to express their ideas and find possible solutions.
For example, one problem could be: “It takes too much time for the teacher to collect all students Homework Book”. Students find the possible solution. ‘All students should put the homework book on her table.” This activity will bring a willingness to compromise and they willl realise they have their role in the lesson.
Problems and Solutions
1- Write on the board: PROBLEMS IN THE CLASS/THINGS WE DON’T LIKE => POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
2- Organize students in groups, telling them to assign one “secretary” who will take notes on their discussion.
3- Students present their problems to the class and their solutions. Let them share and argument.
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Have fun and be ready for critics. And be sure of one thing, students will be more responsible for their learning and your work will be much easier and enjoyable.
From the book: Teaching Teenagers (Herbert Putcha and Michael Schratz)
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