Avoid negotiations and arguments about behaviors.
POSITIVE CUES will do it!
When class is in session...
We encourage students to say, "I'm learning to..." rather than, "I can't."
We display multiples of this mini poster.
We point to any of them when we hear,
"I can't" and we cue the phrase, "I am learning to..."
After several days or weeks, our students
begin to say it to each other.
At first, it'll be in jest; later in earnest.
YET!
We are intentional and conscientious
about building a productive learning environment.
We provide
decision-making opportunities and
identify decision-making criteria.
example: Please choose to sit
where you will be productive.*
I choose wisely!
We front-load
positive and productive attitudes.
We repeat words* of positivity and productivity often, no matter
how corny it seems at first.
As students grow
in understanding of its effectiveness;
Students develop
a positive emotional connection
to learning and therefore, become productive.
Good, better, best...
Never let it rest...
Until the Good is Better...
and the BETTER is BEST!
In the moment...
We ignore bad manners.
We keep our energy focussed on lessons
and affirm appropriate behavior.
We look away from and ignore
inappropriate behaviors.
We model the mantra:
"I ignore bad manners."
Quickly, during the lesson,
We quote the rules* as a generic reminder. Trust... our culture shall develop over time with our consistency and continuity.
We also affirm and commend students who are able to turn away from and give no attention to "bad manners."
I do not
look at or
listen to bad manners..
OR
I ignore bad manners.
