OUR CLASSROOM RULES

As a teacher, you, of course, need to establish general rules of conduct for your classroom. But how do you make your students want to follow the rules? Give them a hand in creating those rules! Here's how to do it. Start with a list of what you consider the bare essentials, and then, through thoughtful discussion, work with your students to create a set of rules expressed in their language.

Use this list as a starting point, adapting and expanding it to meet the needs of your class and grade level:

1. Treat others as you would like to be treated.

2. Respect other people and their property (e.g., no hitting, no stealing).

3. Laugh with anyone, but laugh at no one.

4. Be responsible for your own learning.

5. Come to class and hand in assignments on time.

6. Do not disturb people who are working.

7. Spread happiness and be happy :)

Most teachers agree that it's best to select only a few rules — those that contribute to successful learning and an orderly environment. It's too hard to remember a long list! Make your rules as clear and specific as possible. Then decide with your students' help what the consequences will be for breaking those rules.

Here are some rules that you could include:

• Listen to the teacher / adult.

• Listen to others.

• Put your hand up if you want to speak / answer.

• We keep our hands / feet to ourselves.

• Respect each other.

• Respect other people's property.

• Take care of our equipment.

• Bring the right equipment to our lessons.

• Use kind words.

• Concentrate.

• Finish our work on time.

• Walk around the classroom and school corridors.

• Treat people the way you would like to be treated.

• Be a good friend to everyone.

• Follow directions from others.

• Always tell the truth.

• Enjoy our learning.

• Show manners at all times.

• Be polite.

• Be on time.

• Share with others.

• Keep the classroom tidy.

• Tidy the classroom when we have finished working.

• Line up quietly and smartly.

• Take pride in our school.

• Always work hard.

• Be happy.

• Try to make others happy.

• Smile!