Quick Links

Sign up for the News Update.


E-mail Article

Elkhart Elementary School: 2nd Grade: Mrs. Wright

Working...

Ajax Loading Image

 

Classroom RULES

by Lorrie Wright

September 30, 2008

CLASSROOM RULES

         The reason for my classroom rules is because research shows that the most effective schools are those with a well-ordered environment and high academic expectation, according to Dr. Wong, The First Days of School, (p. 143).  My goal is to develop this type of environment, therefore I must have rules.  Students need to feel that someone is in control and responsible for their environment and rules not only set limits but maintain them.

         I will introduce my rules on the first day of school.  To introduce my plan this is what I might say:  “We are all here for YOU – for you to succeed and to enjoy this class.  Because I care about each of you, I am here to help you.  So I will not allow you to do anything that will interfere with your success in this class.  We will be working together this year.  We need to have a class where you can come without fear of being ridiculed or threatened.  Because I care about ALL of you, I will not allow you to do anything that will interfere with someone else who is trying to learn.  I am the teacher, and I am looking forward to being your teacher this year.  I have an exciting year of learning planned for you, and I will not allow you to do anything to interfere with my desire to teach you.  Nor will I allow you to do anything that will interfere with all of us having an enjoyable year.  So that YOU can learn, so that WE can all learn, so that I can teach, I have a set of rules to ensure that we will have an orderly classroom.”  (The First Days of School, by Harry Wong, p. 147-148)

 

  1.  Respect for Self

I will always do my best

I expect nothing less than your best.  If you always do your best you will not fail in my class.  I want you to have respect for yourself and never sell yourself short of what you can accomplish.  This means if you find a subject hard to do, don’t give up.  Ask for help and try your hardest.  Have confidence in yourself.

I will positively participate in all classroom activities

I expect everyone to participate and fulfill their role within the activity.  I don’t expect only certain peers to do all the work.  I have confidence in all of you and I expect everyone to participate positively, in all classroom activities.  It is your responsibility to participate and have self confidence in yourself. 

These rules will help prevent negativity.  It will also let students understand the importance of responsibility and hopefully give them positive self-esteem.  My rational behind these rules is to let the students know that they will succeed as long as they are giving it their best.  I also want them to understand that they are important to me and I care about how they treat themselves.

  2.  Respect for Others

I will stay on task without disturbing or distracting others

I want you to stay on task without disturbing others.  When working on assignments, I expect you to work quietly.  If you have a question please raise your hand and wait patiently for help.  If at all possible go ahead to the next problem.  Do not disturb other students.  If you finish your assignment, work on other homework or read your book.  I don’t want you up walking around, talking, or disturbing others.

I will not use “put downs” or harass others

Do not use “put downs” or harass others.  I expect everyone to be polite, considerate, and courteous to one another.  I will not tolerate name calling, hitting, or fighting.  I would appreciate it if you wait your turn to talk and use kind words such as “please” and “thank you”. 

I will respect other people’s differences and opinions

Respect other people’s differences and opinions.  School is a place where we protect and lookout for one another rather than hurt or attack one another.  School is a place where we solve our problems together peacefully.  When we work together, there is no greater accomplishment.  Every one is unique and has their own ideas and creative thinking.  We will respect that.

            3.  Respect for School

I will raise my hand to speak

I will enter and exit the room quietly

I will complete all assignments on time

I will actively listen when the teacher is speaking

I have trust in you that you will obey all school rules.  It’s respectful to raise your hand to speak, enter and exit the room quietly, and complete all assignments on time.  Show good disposition by communicating with teachers if you will be gone or late to class.  Good communication is the key to a successful school year.  School is a place where we learn, “we are responsible for what we do”.  School is a place where we learn, “that my way is not the only way”.

(Open up discussion and answer any questions)

 
 

Back To Top