Classroom Management Tips for Specials Teachers
Managing Class Behavior in Classes Outside Home Room
Dec 15, 2008
Classroom teachers have to manage the same students all day, but specials teachers see every child in the school over the course of a week. These classes include music, art, gym, computer, library and sometimes science or another subject. Coming up with an effective classroom management plan that easily transfers to every grade in the school can be complicated, but when thought through, can provide effective motivation for each student.
Card System
Teachers can number each seat in the classroom, and correlate each number to a card. Each student starts on a green card, and when necessary the teacher can give a warning by turning up a yellow card. If the student continues to misbehave, the teacher can then turn a red card and provide a consequence for the student. Consequences can include a note or phone call home, an extra assignment, or other idea that the students come up with. Teachers can also offer a reward for not having a card turned, such as a sticker or small snack.
Point System
The students in the class can work together to earn points throughout the class period. The teacher should list each section of the class on the board including entry, warm up, lesson, closing, exiting, and any other appropriate sections. Then, rate the students based upon their behavior. If the class as a whole comes in appropriately, they get a check, if they are a little talkative, they receive a dotted x as a warning and for inappropriate behavior, they receive an x. At the end of the class period check marks are totaled and the class earns a specified number of points per check.
Create a chart that lists each class to display in the room for students to be able to see their progress. They should be working towards a point goal at which point they have earned a free class period or a Fun Friday. The competition between classes can also help urge students on towards more checks in order to make it to Fun Friday first.
In younger classes you can create a separate chart to display the classes progress towards the point goal. This chart can look similar to the Candy Land Game board, and even provide mini rewards along the way as they get to specific points on the path. Students will love the visual reminder of where they are heading, and work together to earn more points.
It may take a bit more creativity to come up with an effective discipline plan for teachers who see every child in the school. Even so, there are some great ideas that work well, including the card system and a point system. Talk to other specials teachers in the building to see what systems they use for other new ideas.
You may be interested in other classroom management ideas.
