Rose,

You wrote, "Procedures have been set that I cannot touch which
leaves me a little clueless on what to do."

***What exact procedures have been set?

***What would you do - in your ideal classroom - if you could
choose your own procedures?

You wrote,"These kids think they should be treated a certain way
and get certain grades."

***In what way do these kids think they should be treated?

***What grades do they think they should get ... and for doing
what?

I agree with Steve about the importance of creating engaging
lesson plans, and being non-reactive. How are you doing on those
two fronts?

Another approach you can use to address this immediately is the
following: Have a talk with them, human to human.

"Folks, it's pretty clear that something has shifted - in the
first couple of weeks, I felt we were accomplishing things. Now
I feel frustrated much of the time. You're making different
choices. I'm reacting differently. I need your help, here ...
what's going on? What am I doing that's different? What could I
be doing differently? What could you be doing differently?
Anybody have any ideas of how we can work together to create the
sort of class where everybody works together and succeeds?"

Then listen, undefensively, to their responses. Take notes. Ask
clarifying questions. REALLY LISTEN to them, and WANT to hear
their opinions. If you do this, and continue to show them this
sort of respect (versus trying to control them through
punishments, threats, or enticements), you will likely jumpstart
a whole new teacher/student paradigm in the class - one built on
mutual respect.

All my best,

Tom

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