Since I am focusing on behavior this week, I would like to discuss positive behavior management. I find these much more motivating and successful than the negative.
In the beginning of the year (when I am still molding and shaping student behavior) I use a system I call “Compliment” (what can I say, I stink at creative names!). Very simple and easy but it gets the job done. Whenever I notice that the whole class (or the vast majority) is making the correct choice they earn a letter toward the word “compliment.” They could earn a letter for hallway behavior, following a direction quickly, cleaning up quickly and quietly, being silent during a fire drill or being silent when an adult comes in to speak to me and so on. When students spell the entire word then they can vote (democracy and majority rules are third grade concepts) on a reward. I often list examples like Popsicles, extra recess, computer free time, etc. Then we vote as a class, majority rules. I warn the students of this before we even vote to make sure to avoid the “whines.” I hate the “whines.”
I used die cut stars with the letters on them but I made these super cute letters. I may have to print these myself..so much cuter than my stars. You can either magnetize the back and add the letters to the white board as they are earned or you could clip them on the white board backwards with magnetic clips. As students earn letters you can flip the next letter.
Another similar ( and way too cute) concept is the “brownie points” system which is super cute. You can read about this idea at here at First Grader at Last or here at What the Teacher Wants.
Mandy Gregory is a 2007 and 2012 Teacher of the Year. She has taught Kindergarten- 4th grades in both the general education and inclusion settings. She is currently a 1st grade Special Education teacher. She is the owner and creator of Mandy’s Tips for Teachers website (www.mandystipsforteachers.com) and has over 13 years of teaching experience. She is married with two beautiful children.
Hi Mandy –
I have followed you for years on your website. I am now jumping from a website to a blog too but I'm just starting out in the blog world. You have a GREAT name first off – the name I chose for my sweet daughter who is now 12. Amanda – and we call her Mandy I love it.
I am your newest follower…love your tips. I plan on posting behavior tips every Tuesday. Come by and check me out. I would love your input. :o)
~ Vicky
Traditions Laughter and Happily Ever After
http://www.vickymoore2.com