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Classroom Management Chatboard

Would this work?

by lostsubteacher

May 31, 2012

If I end up teaching middle school, would writing a student- teacher agreement that covers procedures for some of the major behavior problems I've encountered as a sub and then giving a quiz on it during the first week work? Below is a draft of the questions I think I would ask the students along with the kind of answers I expect. I plan to spell everything out explicitly in the student-teacher agreement on the syllabus, and I expect them to go over it with their parents. Would this work?

Ask yourself the following questions and answer them using the information provided in the discussion.

1. How should I act if my fellow student gives an answer that I disagree with? A: Raise your hand and respectfully state your opinion. The key word here is “respectfully!” Begin your argument with something from the “helpful phrases list.” Present facts to back up your opinion, and criticize the argument, not the person!

2. What should I do if another student laug...See More

pixie Send the agreement home with a line at the bottom for the parents and students to sign that they have read and agree to the procedures. You cut off the bottom to save that they have seen and agreed to it, and give the kids back the list of procedures. As far as the quiz, I would make it "open book" and I would not expect long, detailed answers. I w...See MoreSend the agreement home with a line at the bottom for the parents and students to sign that they have read and agree to the procedures. You cut off the bottom to save that they have seen and agreed to it, and give the kids back the list of procedures. As far as the quiz, I would make it "open book" and I would not expect long, detailed answers. I would make it a multiple choice of fill in the blanks type of thing. Also, remember that kids have o practice procedures so that they are more than just words on a piece of paper. sounds like you might want to get a copy of Harry Wong's book, "The First Days of School." It really is the bible for teaching procedures. The Wong web site has examples of powerpoint presentations that teachers have used to teach rules and procedures. check 'em out.

n 5/31/12, lostsubteacher wrote: > If I end up teaching middle school, would writing a student- > teacher agreement that covers procedures for some of the > major behavior problems I've encountered as a sub and then > giving a quiz on it during the first week work? Below is a > draft of the questions I think I would ask the students > along with the kind of answers I expect. I plan to spell > everything out explicitly in the student-teacher agreement > on the syllabus, and I expect them to go over it with their > parents. Would this work? > > > > Ask yourself the following questions and answer them using > the information provided in the discussion. > > 1. How should I act if my fellow student gives an > answer that I disagree with? > A: Raise your hand and respectfully state your opinion. The > key word here is “respectfully!” Begin your argument with > something from the “helpful phrases list.” Present facts to > back up your opinion, and criticize the argument, not the > person! > > 2. What should I do if another student laughs at my > answer? > A: ignore the student; do not react to him or her. The > student may not be paying attention and may be laughing at > something unrelated, or the student may be doing it > intentionally to upset you. Stay calm; don’t react. > > 3. What should I do if another student starts making > fun of me while I’m giving an answer? > A: ignore the student’s comments or offer a brief rebuke if > you know the student. Do not allow this to escalate into an > argument. Dismiss the comment and restate your answer in > case we missed anything. A penalty card will be given to > the disruptive student(s). > > 4. How should I dress in the classroom? Why are ripped > jeans and sagging shorts a bad idea? > A: you should dress like you would at a job interview or > pretty close to it, if possible. Clean neat clothes signal > to others that you take pride in yourself, while messy or > unconventional dress speaks of negative traits such as > poverty, apathy, or ignorance. There are some places that > have banned sagging clothing, because they feel it presents > a bad image. Plus, it’s also against your school’s uniform > policy. > > 5. What should I do if a classmate whom I do not know > smells like he forgot his deodorant? > A: ignore the situation. If it bothers you too much for you > to concentrate on your work, request to move to another > part of the room. Offer a friendly private message to the > offender only if you know this particular person pretty > well. You do not want to make anyone angry as this might > lead to the student making an unnecessary outburst or > denying the situation exists and accusing you of > harassment. You also leave yourself a possible target for > future bullying / harassment as retaliation. > > 6. How can I talk in class without getting into > trouble? > A: Wait for a green or yellow light. Raise your hand during > a red light for permission to speak or to ask a teacher or > classmate a question. > > 7. What if I have to go to the bathroom frequently > because I have an upset stomach? > A: Be sure to mention this to your teacher discreetly > before class begins so that you will have access to the > bathroom pass when you need it. If trips to the bathroom > become too frequent, you will be referred to the nurse. > > 8. What should I do if a classmate suddenly smells > very bad? > A: ignore the situation or ask to move to another part of > the room. Do not accuse the student, because you will > likely only make the offending student angry and may be > blamed for the situation or open yourself up to further > harassment. You do not know the situation. Some people > suffer from health problems that sometimes cause > embarrassing situations. Remember, they typically cannot > control this. Also, this may simply be a bid for attention. > Ignore the behavior if you do not want it to continue. > > 9. What if I have to go to the bathroom because I > drank too much water at P.E? > A: use the emergency bathroom pass > > 10. What if I forgot my pencil or paper? > A: use the emergency supplies tokens to ask for emergency > supplies. If you are out of tokens or do not want to use > them, borrow supplies from a classmate, or buy them from > your teacher. > > 11. What should I do if I need to sharpen a pencil > during class? > A: quietly get up during a yellow or green light and > proceed to the pencil sharpener. During a red light, ask > for permission. > > 12. What should I do if I do not understand the > directions for an important assignment? > A: raise your hand and quietly ask your teacher before the > assignment during the “any questions?” period. > > 13. What should I do if I don’t understand what the > teacher said during the discussion? > A: write down your questions, quietly signal for the > teacher, and listen closely as she answers your questions. > > 14. What if I unintentionally embarrass one of my > classmates? > A: apologize quickly and sincerely. If your classmate is > still angry, ignore the situation or attempt to quietly > talk it out. Do not get angry or get into an argument. > > 15. What if I enjoy embarrassing my classmates and do > it for fun because it makes me feel powerful? > A: Middle school can be a confusing, strange, and, > sometimes, cruel place. Sometimes harassed students become > bullies themselves to compensate for the harassment. > Bullying is serious, and it is sometimes not easy to deal > with. Talk to your teacher or another trusted adult about > the situation. See a counselor, and, remember, the skills > that you are using now to make others miserable you could > use to make positive contributions to society. Former > bullies may make good leaders. Relating to others for good > or harm is an art and a viable skill you will need in the > future. > > 16. How should I think of the classroom? > A: Think of the classroom as a place where you can explore > your dreams and learn valuable skills for the future. > > 17. How should I think of my teacher, and how should I > respond to her? > A: think of your teacher as the one who makes it all > possible. Respond to her like you would a very skilled > educational professional, like a counselor or tutor, and > respect her like a doctor or nurse in a hospital. > > 18. What should I do if I forgot to eat breakfast > before coming to school? > A: Go to the cafeteria, and request a snack if it is before > school. If during school, use an emergency token, and ask > your teacher for a light nutritious snack. If the problem > persists, tell your teacher or trusted adult what the > problem is. > > 19. How should I act when I have a substitute teacher? > A: Treat her like she is made out of gold. Follow all of > the procedures we rehearsed, and respect your team > leaders. Act mature, and prove that you know the rules. It > will not go well for you if you abuse my sub. She covers > for me during important events, like family illness or > meetings. Without her, I would not be able to effectively > do my job. > > 20. What is the procedure for making up homework? > A: homework assignments and make-up work are posted online. > If you cannot access them, please see your teacher > immediately. > > 21. Why do I have an assigned seat? > A: assigned seats make taking roll easier, and they cut > down on disagreements. > > 22. How might I stop people from bullying or being mean > to me? > A: Sometimes children and adults harass people to get > control of them. Ignoring the harassment and standing up to > the bully is effective against this. It is also sometimes > important to minimize your perceived negative traits. Try > to make friends by finding people with similar interests. > > 23. What should I do if I finish my work early? > A: Work on an approved anchor activity until everyone else > finishes. > > 24. What are the green, yellow, and red lights for? > A: green lights = the student has free time, yellow lights > = the student may talk quietly using his or her library > voice, red lights = the student must not talk or move > around. > > 25. What should I do if I want to be treated like an > adult and have freedom in the classroom? > A: try to follow all of the procedures, and act mature by > not abusing the little bit of freedom you are given. > > 26. Why can’t I talk during non-group pencil-and-paper > assignments? > A: Sometimes you can talk. Pay attention to the color of > the light. If you have a red light, you will probably > disturb one of your classmates. > > 27. What should I begin doing now in middle school if I > want to be a famous rap artist, singer, song-writer, > painter, musician, dog trainer, talk show host, > psychologist, doctor, lawyer, astronaut, etc.? > A: Start preparing for high school. Sure, the grades you > make now may not seem like they will affect you later, but > they can in one form or another. Pay attention now, or you > might find yourself having to review middle school level > material in high school, meaning you will be behind and may > not catch up. > > 28. What should I do if I think that I’m not > particularly strong socially? > A: There are constructive ways to learn good social skills; > talk to a teacher or counselor for some ideas and helpful > advice. > > 29. If I disagree with the teacher or want to express a > concern or complaint, how can I speak up without getting > into trouble? > A: The trick is to do this discreetly. Don’t challenge a > decision in front of the class, because this will look and > feel like an attempt to disrupt the class, which will > result in disciplinary action. > > 30. Why can’t I talk in class as much as I please? > A: Middle school rule: If you do it, your classmates will > do it, too! For the sake of everyone’s sanity, do not try > this. Talk only during designated talking times. It will > make class flow more smoothly, and we will have fewer > complaints from students who get distracted easily and need > quiet to concentrate. Talking only during the designated > times will also ensure that you do not get wrongfully > disciplined for another classmate’s actions. > > 31. Why do I have to walk in a line when I’m in the > hallway during transitions? > A: short answer: it’s the rule. Long answer: there are a > lot of rules and procedures that you will have to follow in > life that do not always make sense. The line is, > supposedly, for safety reasons to prevent bullying, fights, > and harassment, but, for me, walking in a straight line > also represents a strong sense of discipline, especially if > the institution (organization important to the community) > requires it. Remember, elementary and middle schools > aren’t the only places that require lines; the military > also requires its soldiers to march in a line, and some > high schools require lines during certain activities. > > 32.What should I do if I feel like the people here, > teachers or students, are trying to embarrass me and make > me look silly? > > A: if you feel you have been treated unfairly by children > or adults, let an adult know about the situation > immediately. If you feel I’ve mistreated you, state your > complaint to me respectfully and discreetly during non- > class time. Make sure you have a valid reason to disagree > with me and that you present the facts clearly. Listen > carefully to my explanation, solution, or apology. > > > > >

Jun 2, 2012

Mrsd Not in my experience. Too many questions. Instead, have thee or four rules and have students discuss those. Have them come up with examples of infractions for each. In my school, we have four expectations of respect: respect self, respect learning, respect others, and respect property. We have found that a the fewer rules we have, the fewer rules s...See MoreNot in my experience. Too many questions. Instead, have thee or four rules and have students discuss those. Have them come up with examples of infractions for each. In my school, we have four expectations of respect: respect self, respect learning, respect others, and respect property. We have found that a the fewer rules we have, the fewer rules students find ways to break. Karen

n 6/02/12, pixie wrote: > Send the agreement home with a line at the bottom for the > parents and students to sign that they have read and agree to > the procedures. You cut off the bottom to save that they have > seen and agreed to it, and give the kids back the list of > procedures. As far as the quiz, I would make it "open book" and > I would not expect long, detailed answers. I would make it a > multiple choice of fill in the blanks type of thing. > Also, remember that kids have o practice procedures so that > they are more than just words on a piece of paper. sounds like > you might want to get a copy of Harry Wong's book, "The First > Days of School." It really is the bible for teaching > procedures. The Wong web site has examples of powerpoint > presentations that teachers have used to teach rules and > procedures. check 'em out. > > > > > > n 5/31/12, lostsubteacher wrote: >> If I end up teaching middle school, would writing a student- >> teacher agreement that covers procedures for some of the >> major behavior problems I've encountered as a sub and then >> giving a quiz on it during the first week work? Below is a >> draft of the questions I think I would ask the students >> along with the kind of answers I expect. I plan to spell >> everything out explicitly in the student-teacher agreement >> on the syllabus, and I expect them to go over it with their >> parents. Would this work? >> >> >> >> Ask yourself the following questions and answer them using >> the information provided in the discussion. >> >> 1. How should I act if my fellow student gives an >> answer that I disagree with? >> A: Raise your hand and respectfully state your opinion. The >> key word here is “respectfully!” Begin your argument with >> something from the “helpful phrases list.” Present facts to >> back up your opinion, and criticize the argument, not the >> person! >> >> 2. What should I do if another student laughs at my >> answer? >> A: ignore the student; do not react to him or her. The >> student may not be paying attention and may be laughing at >> something unrelated, or the student may be doing it >> intentionally to upset you. Stay calm; don’t react. >> >> 3. What should I do if another student starts making >> fun of me while I’m giving an answer? >> A: ignore the student’s comments or offer a brief rebuke if >> you know the student. Do not allow this to escalate into an >> argument. Dismiss the comment and restate your answer in >> case we missed anything. A penalty card will be given to >> the disruptive student(s). >> >> 4. How should I dress in the classroom? Why are ripped >> jeans and sagging shorts a bad idea? >> A: you should dress like you would at a job interview or >> pretty close to it, if possible. Clean neat clothes signal >> to others that you take pride in yourself, while messy or >> unconventional dress speaks of negative traits such as >> poverty, apathy, or ignorance. There are some places that >> have banned sagging clothing, because they feel it presents >> a bad image. Plus, it’s also against your school’s uniform >> policy. >> >> 5. What should I do if a classmate whom I do not know >> smells like he forgot his deodorant? >> A: ignore the situation. If it bothers you too much for you >> to concentrate on your work, request to move to another >> part of the room. Offer a friendly private message to the >> offender only if you know this particular person pretty >> well. You do not want to make anyone angry as this might >> lead to the student making an unnecessary outburst or >> denying the situation exists and accusing you of >> harassment. You also leave yourself a possible target for >> future bullying / harassment as retaliation. >> >> 6. How can I talk in class without getting into >> trouble? >> A: Wait for a green or yellow light. Raise your hand during >> a red light for permission to speak or to ask a teacher or >> classmate a question. >> >> 7. What if I have to go to the bathroom frequently >> because I have an upset stomach? >> A: Be sure to mention this to your teacher discreetly >> before class begins so that you will have access to the >> bathroom pass when you need it. If trips to the bathroom >> become too frequent, you will be referred to the nurse. >> >> 8. What should I do if a classmate suddenly smells >> very bad? >> A: ignore the situation or ask to move to another part of >> the room. Do not accuse the student, because you will >> likely only make the offending student angry and may be >> blamed for the situation or open yourself up to further >> harassment. You do not know the situation. Some people >> suffer from health problems that sometimes cause >> embarrassing situations. Remember, they typically cannot >> control this. Also, this may simply be a bid for attention. >> Ignore the behavior if you do not want it to continue. >> >> 9. What if I have to go to the bathroom because I >> drank too much water at P.E? >> A: use the emergency bathroom pass >> >> 10. What if I forgot my pencil or paper? >> A: use the emergency supplies tokens to ask for emergency >> supplies. If you are out of tokens or do not want to use >> them, borrow supplies from a classmate, or buy them from >> your teacher. >> >> 11. What should I do if I need to sharpen a pencil >> during class? >> A: quietly get up during a yellow or green light and >> proceed to the pencil sharpener. During a red light, ask >> for permission. >> >> 12. What should I do if I do not understand the >> directions for an important assignment? >> A: raise your hand and quietly ask your teacher before the >> assignment during the “any questions?” period. >> >> 13. What should I do if I don’t understand what the >> teacher said during the discussion? >> A: write down your questions, quietly signal for the >> teacher, and listen closely as she answers your questions. >> >> 14. What if I unintentionally embarrass one of my >> classmates? >> A: apologize quickly and sincerely. If your classmate is >> still angry, ignore the situation or attempt to quietly >> talk it out. Do not get angry or get into an argument. >> >> 15. What if I enjoy embarrassing my classmates and do >> it for fun because it makes me feel powerful? >> A: Middle school can be a confusing, strange, and, >> sometimes, cruel place. Sometimes harassed students become >> bullies themselves to compensate for the harassment. >> Bullying is serious, and it is sometimes not easy to deal >> with. Talk to your teacher or another trusted adult about >> the situation. See a counselor, and, remember, the skills >> that you are using now to make others miserable you could >> use to make positive contributions to society. Former >> bullies may make good leaders. Relating to others for good >> or harm is an art and a viable skill you will need in the >> future. >> >> 16. How should I think of the classroom? >> A: Think of the classroom as a place where you can explore >> your dreams and learn valuable skills for the future. >> >> 17. How should I think of my teacher, and how should I >> respond to her? >> A: think of your teacher as the one who makes it all >> possible. Respond to her like you would a very skilled >> educational professional, like a counselor or tutor, and >> respect her like a doctor or nurse in a hospital. >> >> 18. What should I do if I forgot to eat breakfast >> before coming to school? >> A: Go to the cafeteria, and request a snack if it is before >> school. If during school, use an emergency token, and ask >> your teacher for a light nutritious snack. If the problem >> persists, tell your teacher or trusted adult what the >> problem is. >> >> 19. How should I act when I have a substitute teacher? >> A: Treat her like she is made out of gold. Follow all of >> the procedures we rehearsed, and respect your team >> leaders. Act mature, and prove that you know the rules. It >> will not go well for you if you abuse my sub. She covers >> for me during important events, like family illness or >> meetings. Without her, I would not be able to effectively >> do my job. >> >> 20. What is the procedure for making up homework? >> A: homework assignments and make-up work are posted online. >> If you cannot access them, please see your teacher >> immediately. >> >> 21. Why do I have an assigned seat? >> A: assigned seats make taking roll easier, and they cut >> down on disagreements. >> >> 22. How might I stop people from bullying or being mean >> to me? >> A: Sometimes children and adults harass people to get >> control of them. Ignoring the harassment and standing up to >> the bully is effective against this. It is also sometimes >> important to minimize your perceived negative traits. Try >> to make friends by finding people with similar interests. >> >> 23. What should I do if I finish my work early? >> A: Work on an approved anchor activity until everyone else >> finishes. >> >> 24. What are the green, yellow, and red lights for? >> A: green lights = the student has free time, yellow lights >> = the student may talk quietly using his or her library >> voice, red lights = the student must not talk or move >> around. >> >> 25. What should I do if I want to be treated like an >> adult and have freedom in the classroom? >> A: try to follow all of the procedures, and act mature by >> not abusing the little bit of freedom you are given. >> >> 26. Why can’t I talk during non-group pencil-and-paper >> assignments? >> A: Sometimes you can talk. Pay attention to the color of >> the light. If you have a red light, you will probably >> disturb one of your classmates. >> >> 27. What should I begin doing now in middle school if I >> want to be a famous rap artist, singer, song-writer, >> painter, musician, dog trainer, talk show host, >> psychologist, doctor, lawyer, astronaut, etc.? >> A: Start preparing for high school. Sure, the grades you >> make now may not seem like they will affect you later, but >> they can in one form or another. Pay attention now, or you >> might find yourself having to review middle school level >> material in high school, meaning you will be behind and may >> not catch up. >> >> 28. What should I do if I think that I’m not >> particularly strong socially? >> A: There are constructive ways to learn good social skills; >> talk to a teacher or counselor for some ideas and helpful >> advice. >> >> 29. If I disagree with the teacher or want to express a >> concern or complaint, how can I speak up without getting >> into trouble? >> A: The trick is to do this discreetly. Don’t challenge a >> decision in front of the class, because this will look and >> feel like an attempt to disrupt the class, which will >> result in disciplinary action. >> >> 30. Why can’t I talk in class as much as I please? >> A: Middle school rule: If you do it, your classmates will >> do it, too! For the sake of everyone’s sanity, do not try >> this. Talk only during designated talking times. It will >> make class flow more smoothly, and we will have fewer >> complaints from students who get distracted easily and need >> quiet to concentrate. Talking only during the designated >> times will also ensure that you do not get wrongfully >> disciplined for another classmate’s actions. >> >> 31. Why do I have to walk in a line when I’m in the >> hallway during transitions? >> A: short answer: it’s the rule. Long answer: there are a >> lot of rules and procedures that you will have to follow in >> life that do not always make sense. The line is, >> supposedly, for safety reasons to prevent bullying, fights, >> and harassment, but, for me, walking in a straight line >> also represents a strong sense of discipline, especially if >> the institution (organization important to the community) >> requires it. Remember, elementary and middle schools >> aren’t the only places that require lines; the military >> also requires its soldiers to march in a line, and some >> high schools require lines during certain activities. >> >> 32.What should I do if I feel like the people here, >> teachers or students, are trying to embarrass me and make >> me look silly? >> >> A: if you feel you have been treated unfairly by children >> or adults, let an adult know about the situation >> immediately. If you feel I’ve mistreated you, state your >> complaint to me respectfully and discreetly during non- >> class time. Make sure you have a valid reason to disagree >> with me and that you present the facts clearly. Listen >> carefully to my explanation, solution, or apology. >> >> >> >> >>

Jun 5, 2012

Mandy Whether or not it would work depends on what the kids are used to and what their home life is like. Do their parents value education? Or are you seen as a glorified babysitter?

This is what I do:

I have 5 rules to try and keep it simple. We go over what each rule means and give examples.

Follow directions the first time ...See MoreWhether or not it would work depends on what the kids are used to and what their home life is like. Do their parents value education? Or are you seen as a glorified babysitter?

This is what I do:

I have 5 rules to try and keep it simple. We go over what each rule means and give examples.

Follow directions the first time given. Be respectful of others and property. Be in seat with materials when bell rings. Raise hand to speak or get up. Keep hands, feet, objects, and mean comments to self.

I also have some policies on homework and absences, but it's kept short.

My welcome letter/syllabus is just one page, double sided. The font is 14, so it's not super small with a ton of information crammed in. I include the following sections: Hello, Materials, Rules/Rewards/Consequences, Homework policy, Absence policy, Agreement (where the signature goes).

Good luck. :)

On 6/05/12, Mrsd wrote: > Not in my experience. Too many questions. Instead, have thee or > four rules and have students discuss those. Have them come up > with examples of infractions for each. In my school, we have > four expectations of respect: respect self, respect learning, > respect others, and respect property. We have found that a the > fewer rules we have, the fewer rules students find ways to > break. Karen > > > > > n 6/02/12, pixie wrote: >> Send the agreement home with a line at the bottom for the >> parents and students to sign that they have read and agree to >> the procedures. You cut off the bottom to save that they have >> seen and agreed to it, and give the kids back the list of >> procedures. As far as the quiz, I would make it "open book" and >> I would not expect long, detailed answers. I would make it a >> multiple choice of fill in the blanks type of thing. >> Also, remember that kids have o practice procedures so that >> they are more than just words on a piece of paper. sounds like >> you might want to get a copy of Harry Wong's book, "The First >> Days of School." It really is the bible for teaching >> procedures. The Wong web site has examples of powerpoint >> presentations that teachers have used to teach rules and >> procedures. check 'em out. >> >> >> >> >> >> n 5/31/12, lostsubteacher wrote: >>> If I end up teaching middle school, would writing a student- >>> teacher agreement that covers procedures for some of the >>> major behavior problems I've encountered as a sub and then >>> giving a quiz on it during the first week work? Below is a >>> draft of the questions I think I would ask the students >>> along with the kind of answers I expect. I plan to spell >>> everything out explicitly in the student-teacher agreement >>> on the syllabus, and I expect them to go over it with their >>> parents. Would this work? >>> >>> >>> >>> Ask yourself the following questions and answer them using >>> the information provided in the discussion. >>> >>> 1. How should I act if my fellow student gives an >>> answer that I disagree with? >>> A: Raise your hand and respectfully state your opinion. The >>> key word here is “respectfully!” Begin your argument with >>> something from the “helpful phrases list.” Present facts to >>> back up your opinion, and criticize the argument, not the >>> person! >>> >>> 2. What should I do if another student laughs at my >>> answer? >>> A: ignore the student; do not react to him or her. The >>> student may not be paying attention and may be laughing at >>> something unrelated, or the student may be doing it >>> intentionally to upset you. Stay calm; don’t react. >>> >>> 3. What should I do if another student starts making >>> fun of me while I’m giving an answer? >>> A: ignore the student’s comments or offer a brief rebuke if >>> you know the student. Do not allow this to escalate into an >>> argument. Dismiss the comment and restate your answer in >>> case we missed anything. A penalty card will be given to >>> the disruptive student(s). >>> >>> 4. How should I dress in the classroom? Why are ripped >>> jeans and sagging shorts a bad idea? >>> A: you should dress like you would at a job interview or >>> pretty close to it, if possible. Clean neat clothes signal >>> to others that you take pride in yourself, while messy or >>> unconventional dress speaks of negative traits such as >>> poverty, apathy, or ignorance. There are some places that >>> have banned sagging clothing, because they feel it presents >>> a bad image. Plus, it’s also against your school’s uniform >>> policy. >>> >>> 5. What should I do if a classmate whom I do not know >>> smells like he forgot his deodorant? >>> A: ignore the situation. If it bothers you too much for you >>> to concentrate on your work, request to move to another >>> part of the room. Offer a friendly private message to the >>> offender only if you know this particular person pretty >>> well. You do not want to make anyone angry as this might >>> lead to the student making an unnecessary outburst or >>> denying the situation exists and accusing you of >>> harassment. You also leave yourself a possible target for >>> future bullying / harassment as retaliation. >>> >>> 6. How can I talk in class without getting into >>> trouble? >>> A: Wait for a green or yellow light. Raise your hand during >>> a red light for permission to speak or to ask a teacher or >>> classmate a question. >>> >>> 7. What if I have to go to the bathroom frequently >>> because I have an upset stomach? >>> A: Be sure to mention this to your teacher discreetly >>> before class begins so that you will have access to the >>> bathroom pass when you need it. If trips to the bathroom >>> become too frequent, you will be referred to the nurse. >>> >>> 8. What should I do if a classmate suddenly smells >>> very bad? >>> A: ignore the situation or ask to move to another part of >>> the room. Do not accuse the student, because you will >>> likely only make the offending student angry and may be >>> blamed for the situation or open yourself up to further >>> harassment. You do not know the situation. Some people >>> suffer from health problems that sometimes cause >>> embarrassing situations. Remember, they typically cannot >>> control this. Also, this may simply be a bid for attention. >>> Ignore the behavior if you do not want it to continue. >>> >>> 9. What if I have to go to the bathroom because I >>> drank too much water at P.E? >>> A: use the emergency bathroom pass >>> >>> 10. What if I forgot my pencil or paper? >>> A: use the emergency supplies tokens to ask for emergency >>> supplies. If you are out of tokens or do not want to use >>> them, borrow supplies from a classmate, or buy them from >>> your teacher. >>> >>> 11. What should I do if I need to sharpen a pencil >>> during class? >>> A: quietly get up during a yellow or green light and >>> proceed to the pencil sharpener. During a red light, ask >>> for permission. >>> >>> 12. What should I do if I do not understand the >>> directions for an important assignment? >>> A: raise your hand and quietly ask your teacher before the >>> assignment during the “any questions?” period. >>> >>> 13. What should I do if I don’t understand what the >>> teacher said during the discussion? >>> A: write down your questions, quietly signal for the >>> teacher, and listen closely as she answers your questions. >>> >>> 14. What if I unintentionally embarrass one of my >>> classmates? >>> A: apologize quickly and sincerely. If your classmate is >>> still angry, ignore the situation or attempt to quietly >>> talk it out. Do not get angry or get into an argument. >>> >>> 15. What if I enjoy embarrassing my classmates and do >>> it for fun because it makes me feel powerful? >>> A: Middle school can be a confusing, strange, and, >>> sometimes, cruel place. Sometimes harassed students become >>> bullies themselves to compensate for the harassment. >>> Bullying is serious, and it is sometimes not easy to deal >>> with. Talk to your teacher or another trusted adult about >>> the situation. See a counselor, and, remember, the skills >>> that you are using now to make others miserable you could >>> use to make positive contributions to society. Former >>> bullies may make good leaders. Relating to others for good >>> or harm is an art and a viable skill you will need in the >>> future. >>> >>> 16. How should I think of the classroom? >>> A: Think of the classroom as a place where you can explore >>> your dreams and learn valuable skills for the future. >>> >>> 17. How should I think of my teacher, and how should I >>> respond to her? >>> A: think of your teacher as the one who makes it all >>> possible. Respond to her like you would a very skilled >>> educational professional, like a counselor or tutor, and >>> respect her like a doctor or nurse in a hospital. >>> >>> 18. What should I do if I forgot to eat breakfast >>> before coming to school? >>> A: Go to the cafeteria, and request a snack if it is before >>> school. If during school, use an emergency token, and ask >>> your teacher for a light nutritious snack. If the problem >>> persists, tell your teacher or trusted adult what the >>> problem is. >>> >>> 19. How should I act when I have a substitute teacher? >>> A: Treat her like she is made out of gold. Follow all of >>> the procedures we rehearsed, and respect your team >>> leaders. Act mature, and prove that you know the rules. It >>> will not go well for you if you abuse my sub. She covers >>> for me during important events, like family illness or >>> meetings. Without her, I would not be able to effectively >>> do my job. >>> >>> 20. What is the procedure for making up homework? >>> A: homework assignments and make-up work are posted online. >>> If you cannot access them, please see your teacher >>> immediately. >>> >>> 21. Why do I have an assigned seat? >>> A: assigned seats make taking roll easier, and they cut >>> down on disagreements. >>> >>> 22. How might I stop people from bullying or being mean >>> to me? >>> A: Sometimes children and adults harass people to get >>> control of them. Ignoring the harassment and standing up to >>> the bully is effective against this. It is also sometimes >>> important to minimize your perceived negative traits. Try >>> to make friends by finding people with similar interests. >>> >>> 23. What should I do if I finish my work early? >>> A: Work on an approved anchor activity until everyone else >>> finishes. >>> >>> 24. What are the green, yellow, and red lights for? >>> A: green lights = the student has free time, yellow lights >>> = the student may talk quietly using his or her library >>> voice, red lights = the student must not talk or move >>> around. >>> >>> 25. What should I do if I want to be treated like an >>> adult and have freedom in the classroom? >>> A: try to follow all of the procedures, and act mature by >>> not abusing the little bit of freedom you are given. >>> >>> 26. Why can’t I talk during non-group pencil-and-paper >>> assignments? >>> A: Sometimes you can talk. Pay attention to the color of >>> the light. If you have a red light, you will probably >>> disturb one of your classmates. >>> >>> 27. What should I begin doing now in middle school if I >>> want to be a famous rap artist, singer, song-writer, >>> painter, musician, dog trainer, talk show host, >>> psychologist, doctor, lawyer, astronaut, etc.? >>> A: Start preparing for high school. Sure, the grades you >>> make now may not seem like they will affect you later, but >>> they can in one form or another. Pay attention now, or you >>> might find yourself having to review middle school level >>> material in high school, meaning you will be behind and may >>> not catch up. >>> >>> 28. What should I do if I think that I’m not >>> particularly strong socially? >>> A: There are constructive ways to learn good social skills; >>> talk to a teacher or counselor for some ideas and helpful >>> advice. >>> >>> 29. If I disagree with the teacher or want to express a >>> concern or complaint, how can I speak up without getting >>> into trouble? >>> A: The trick is to do this discreetly. Don’t challenge a >>> decision in front of the class, because this will look and >>> feel like an attempt to disrupt the class, which will >>> result in disciplinary action. >>> >>> 30. Why can’t I talk in class as much as I please? >>> A: Middle school rule: If you do it, your classmates will >>> do it, too! For the sake of everyone’s sanity, do not try >>> this. Talk only during designated talking times. It will >>> make class flow more smoothly, and we will have fewer >>> complaints from students who get distracted easily and need >>> quiet to concentrate. Talking only during the designated >>> times will also ensure that you do not get wrongfully >>> disciplined for another classmate’s actions. >>> >>> 31. Why do I have to walk in a line when I’m in the >>> hallway during transitions? >>> A: short answer: it’s the rule. Long answer: there are a >>> lot of rules and procedures that you will have to follow in >>> life that do not always make sense. The line is, >>> supposedly, for safety reasons to prevent bullying, fights, >>> and harassment, but, for me, walking in a straight line >>> also represents a strong sense of discipline, especially if >>> the institution (organization important to the community) >>> requires it. Remember, elementary and middle schools >>> aren’t the only places that require lines; the military >>> also requires its soldiers to march in a line, and some >>> high schools require lines during certain activities. >>> >>> 32.What should I do if I feel like the people here, >>> teachers or students, are trying to embarrass me and make >>> me look silly? >>> >>> A: if you feel you have been treated unfairly by children >>> or adults, let an adult know about the situation >>> immediately. If you feel I’ve mistreated you, state your >>> complaint to me respectfully and discreetly during non- >>> class time. Make sure you have a valid reason to disagree >>> with me and that you present the facts clearly. Listen >>> carefully to my explanation, solution, or apology. >>> >>> >>> >>> >>>

Jun 8, 2012

Christina I commend you for wanting to put in place a class management system prior to starting your first job, but you might want to scale down a bit and refine some of the repetitive questions you are considering. Since questions 1-3,5-6,8,and 14-15 all relate to classroom etiquette, you might want to pose one question regarding expected class behavior and...See MoreI commend you for wanting to put in place a class management system prior to starting your first job, but you might want to scale down a bit and refine some of the repetitive questions you are considering. Since questions 1-3,5-6,8,and 14-15 all relate to classroom etiquette, you might want to pose one question regarding expected class behavior and generally include all scenarios in the answer. Likewise, you could do the same for bathroom visits, class preparation, assignemnts, etc. If it helps, I have always kept my class guidelines limited. I have three guidelines: Respect yourself. Respect the teacher. Respect your classmates. For each three, I specifically list the expecttion as it relates to their individual responsibility. One always relates to behavior and the other to preparation/work ethic. I personally find it more helpful to call them guidelines than rules, and I pose them as statements rather than questions. But, as you know, you need to do what works for you.

I hope this feedback will be helpful, and I wish you luck with your first teaching job!

On 5/31/12, lostsubteacher wrote: > If I end up teaching middle school, would writing a student- > teacher agreement that covers procedures for some of the > major behavior problems I've encountered as a sub and then > giving a quiz on it during the first week work? Below is a > draft of the questions I think I would ask the students > along with the kind of answers I expect. I plan to spell > everything out explicitly in the student-teacher agreement > on the syllabus, and I expect them to go over it with their > parents. Would this work? > > > > Ask yourself the following questions and answer them using > the information provided in the discussion. > > 1. How should I act if my fellow student gives an > answer that I disagree with? > A: Raise your hand and respectfully state your opinion. The > key word here is “respectfully!” Begin your argument with > something from the “helpful phrases list.” Present facts to > back up your opinion, and criticize the argument, not the > person! > > 2. What should I do if another student laughs at my > answer? > A: ignore the student; do not react to him or her. The > student may not be paying attention and may be laughing at > something unrelated, or the student may be doing it > intentionally to upset you. Stay calm; don’t react. > > 3. What should I do if another student starts making > fun of me while I’m giving an answer? > A: ignore the student’s comments or offer a brief rebuke if > you know the student. Do not allow this to escalate into an > argument. Dismiss the comment and restate your answer in > case we missed anything. A penalty card will be given to > the disruptive student(s). > > 4. How should I dress in the classroom? Why are ripped > jeans and sagging shorts a bad idea? > A: you should dress like you would at a job interview or > pretty close to it, if possible. Clean neat clothes signal > to others that you take pride in yourself, while messy or > unconventional dress speaks of negative traits such as > poverty, apathy, or ignorance. There are some places that > have banned sagging clothing, because they feel it presents > a bad image. Plus, it’s also against your school’s uniform > policy. > > 5. What should I do if a classmate whom I do not know > smells like he forgot his deodorant? > A: ignore the situation. If it bothers you too much for you > to concentrate on your work, request to move to another > part of the room. Offer a friendly private message to the > offender only if you know this particular person pretty > well. You do not want to make anyone angry as this might > lead to the student making an unnecessary outburst or > denying the situation exists and accusing you of > harassment. You also leave yourself a possible target for > future bullying / harassment as retaliation. > > 6. How can I talk in class without getting into > trouble? > A: Wait for a green or yellow light. Raise your hand during > a red light for permission to speak or to ask a teacher or > classmate a question. > > 7. What if I have to go to the bathroom frequently > because I have an upset stomach? > A: Be sure to mention this to your teacher discreetly > before class begins so that you will have access to the > bathroom pass when you need it. If trips to the bathroom > become too frequent, you will be referred to the nurse. > > 8. What should I do if a classmate suddenly smells > very bad? > A: ignore the situation or ask to move to another part of > the room. Do not accuse the student, because you will > likely only make the offending student angry and may be > blamed for the situation or open yourself up to further > harassment. You do not know the situation. Some people > suffer from health problems that sometimes cause > embarrassing situations. Remember, they typically cannot > control this. Also, this may simply be a bid for attention. > Ignore the behavior if you do not want it to continue. > > 9. What if I have to go to the bathroom because I > drank too much water at P.E? > A: use the emergency bathroom pass > > 10. What if I forgot my pencil or paper? > A: use the emergency supplies tokens to ask for emergency > supplies. If you are out of tokens or do not want to use > them, borrow supplies from a classmate, or buy them from > your teacher. > > 11. What should I do if I need to sharpen a pencil > during class? > A: quietly get up during a yellow or green light and > proceed to the pencil sharpener. During a red light, ask > for permission. > > 12. What should I do if I do not understand the > directions for an important assignment? > A: raise your hand and quietly ask your teacher before the > assignment during the “any questions?” period. > > 13. What should I do if I don’t understand what the > teacher said during the discussion? > A: write down your questions, quietly signal for the > teacher, and listen closely as she answers your questions. > > 14. What if I unintentionally embarrass one of my > classmates? > A: apologize quickly and sincerely. If your classmate is > still angry, ignore the situation or attempt to quietly > talk it out. Do not get angry or get into an argument. > > 15. What if I enjoy embarrassing my classmates and do > it for fun because it makes me feel powerful? > A: Middle school can be a confusing, strange, and, > sometimes, cruel place. Sometimes harassed students become > bullies themselves to compensate for the harassment. > Bullying is serious, and it is sometimes not easy to deal > with. Talk to your teacher or another trusted adult about > the situation. See a counselor, and, remember, the skills > that you are using now to make others miserable you could > use to make positive contributions to society. Former > bullies may make good leaders. Relating to others for good > or harm is an art and a viable skill you will need in the > future. > > 16. How should I think of the classroom? > A: Think of the classroom as a place where you can explore > your dreams and learn valuable skills for the future. > > 17. How should I think of my teacher, and how should I > respond to her? > A: think of your teacher as the one who makes it all > possible. Respond to her like you would a very skilled > educational professional, like a counselor or tutor, and > respect her like a doctor or nurse in a hospital. > > 18. What should I do if I forgot to eat breakfast > before coming to school? > A: Go to the cafeteria, and request a snack if it is before > school. If during school, use an emergency token, and ask > your teacher for a light nutritious snack. If the problem > persists, tell your teacher or trusted adult what the > problem is. > > 19. How should I act when I have a substitute teacher? > A: Treat her like she is made out of gold. Follow all of > the procedures we rehearsed, and respect your team > leaders. Act mature, and prove that you know the rules. It > will not go well for you if you abuse my sub. She covers > for me during important events, like family illness or > meetings. Without her, I would not be able to effectively > do my job. > > 20. What is the procedure for making up homework? > A: homework assignments and make-up work are posted online. > If you cannot access them, please see your teacher > immediately. > > 21. Why do I have an assigned seat? > A: assigned seats make taking roll easier, and they cut > down on disagreements. > > 22. How might I stop people from bullying or being mean > to me? > A: Sometimes children and adults harass people to get > control of them. Ignoring the harassment and standing up to > the bully is effective against this. It is also sometimes > important to minimize your perceived negative traits. Try > to make friends by finding people with similar interests. > > 23. What should I do if I finish my work early? > A: Work on an approved anchor activity until everyone else > finishes. > > 24. What are the green, yellow, and red lights for? > A: green lights = the student has free time, yellow lights > = the student may talk quietly using his or her library > voice, red lights = the student must not talk or move > around. > > 25. What should I do if I want to be treated like an > adult and have freedom in the classroom? > A: try to follow all of the procedures, and act mature by > not abusing the little bit of freedom you are given. > > 26. Why can’t I talk during non-group pencil-and-paper > assignments? > A: Sometimes you can talk. Pay attention to the color of > the light. If you have a red light, you will probably > disturb one of your classmates. > > 27. What should I begin doing now in middle school if I > want to be a famous rap artist, singer, song-writer, > painter, musician, dog trainer, talk show host, > psychologist, doctor, lawyer, astronaut, etc.? > A: Start preparing for high school. Sure, the grades you > make now may not seem like they will affect you later, but > they can in one form or another. Pay attention now, or you > might find yourself having to review middle school level > material in high school, meaning you will be behind and may > not catch up. > > 28. What should I do if I think that I’m not > particularly strong socially? > A: There are constructive ways to learn good social skills; > talk to a teacher or counselor for some ideas and helpful > advice. > > 29. If I disagree with the teacher or want to express a > concern or complaint, how can I speak up without getting > into trouble? > A: The trick is to do this discreetly. Don’t challenge a > decision in front of the class, because this will look and > feel like an attempt to disrupt the class, which will > result in disciplinary action. > > 30. Why can’t I talk in class as much as I please? > A: Middle school rule: If you do it, your classmates will > do it, too! For the sake of everyone’s sanity, do not try > this. Talk only during designated talking times. It will > make class flow more smoothly, and we will have fewer > complaints from students who get distracted easily and need > quiet to concentrate. Talking only during the designated > times will also ensure that you do not get wrongfully > disciplined for another classmate’s actions. > > 31. Why do I have to walk in a line when I’m in the > hallway during transitions? > A: short answer: it’s the rule. Long answer: there are a > lot of rules and procedures that you will have to follow in > life that do not always make sense. The line is, > supposedly, for safety reasons to prevent bullying, fights, > and harassment, but, for me, walking in a straight line > also represents a strong sense of discipline, especially if > the institution (organization important to the community) > requires it. Remember, elementary and middle schools > aren’t the only places that require lines; the military > also requires its soldiers to march in a line, and some > high schools require lines during certain activities. > > 32.What should I do if I feel like the people here, > teachers or students, are trying to embarrass me and make > me look silly? > > A: if you feel you have been treated unfairly by children > or adults, let an adult know about the situation > immediately. If you feel I’ve mistreated you, state your > complaint to me respectfully and discreetly during non- > class time. Make sure you have a valid reason to disagree > with me and that you present the facts clearly. Listen > carefully to my explanation, solution, or apology. > > > > >

Jul 13, 2012

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