SAY and DO
for student positivity and productivity
(while you maintain your own positivity and productivity)
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". Then, 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.. we
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 experience
the effectiveness of this practice,
s/he gradually develops
a positive emotional connection
to learning. This leads to productivity.
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.
