The third chapter of Fires in the Bathroom, by Kathleen Cushman, focused on the management of classroom behaviors. One quotation, by Daryl, really got me thinking, "My new teacher didn't set boundaries about what was okay to do. Kids would take out sports or motorcycle magazines in the middle of a class discussion- the first time it happened, he should have addressed it right away. Instead he waited a couple of days" (pg. 38). Different teachers expect different things from their students. It is extremely important to establish boundaries on the first day of class. Further on, the chapter discussed what may happen if the rules are not firmly dictated (i.e students reading sports magazines). To me, this is a little condescending to the students, especially if you are talking about high schoolers as I am.
Generally, students know what is expected of them in the classroom. Since Kindergarten we have been bombarded with rules of conduct and academic expectations, mostly they are the same every year; be respectful and try your hardest. Although I do think that it is essential to develop clear rules and expectations, I do not think it is necessary to spend an entire class period lecturing the students. I have had teachers who spend the entire first class reading from their syllabus and talking about ways to be respectful and productive, it was belittling and boring. Though it may be presumptuous, I would argue that all students know that they are expected to attempt their work and treat others kindly. As a teacher, it may seem critical to establish these ideas, but just remember that you are not a revolutionary and the students have heard it before. My advice, settle on a list of five to ten key expectations, and if you feel that an explanation is needed you may then take the time out of class to discuss it with the students.
Note: Do not lecture, but discuss.
Generally, students know what is expected of them in the classroom. Since Kindergarten we have been bombarded with rules of conduct and academic expectations, mostly they are the same every year; be respectful and try your hardest. Although I do think that it is essential to develop clear rules and expectations, I do not think it is necessary to spend an entire class period lecturing the students. I have had teachers who spend the entire first class reading from their syllabus and talking about ways to be respectful and productive, it was belittling and boring. Though it may be presumptuous, I would argue that all students know that they are expected to attempt their work and treat others kindly. As a teacher, it may seem critical to establish these ideas, but just remember that you are not a revolutionary and the students have heard it before. My advice, settle on a list of five to ten key expectations, and if you feel that an explanation is needed you may then take the time out of class to discuss it with the students.
Note: Do not lecture, but discuss.
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