Banner Behavior

Need new strategies for classroom management? Teachers can never have too many options listed in their teacher toolbox.

The best types of behavior management ideas might work wonderfully for one group of students, and not at all for the next.

While it’s important to know some basic universal management tips, the top teachers all know the big AND small tricks which might work for individual students, small groups, or even the whole class at once.

Miranda is a middle school teacher who doesn’t know what do do for effective classroom discipline anymore. The students are texting, “eating” her pencils, and basically give her the eyeroll at every chance. They aren’t “bad” kids, but have grown accustomed to “being themselves” in her classroom whenever they feel like it.

She has fun lessons and concepts that include interesting powerpoint games and even independent study work as an option for those students needing various differentiation.

But they still just feel they can goof off whenever they want.

Perhaps it’s time for corrective measures that are easy to implement and all students will have a vested interest in accomplishing.

Today we have an idea for positive behavior reinforcement!

Successful Teaching Tip

First, start with these supplies – all found in my local craft store:  the pennant paper was found in the scrapbook section (though if you have more time and choose, you could certainly make your own with paper you have on hand), some letter stickers in the colors of your choice, twine, and mini clothespins (also found in the scrapbook aisle as that is what they are meant for – lol). OR grab the ready to go printable below!

Putting it all together is pretty self-explanatory: attach your sticker letters on the pennants.

To use, simply put up a letter when students have met the behavior expectations for the day.  You could also take down (though I prefer to focus on the positive behavior rather than to notice the negative behavior when possible). 

Change up the word to “celebrate” or “well done” if you like. 

I like PARTY because it evokes a feeling of celebration and excitement for a job well done, plus it is short enough to see the results pretty quickly.  Or even have students help you decide which word to use!

When the class finishes spelling out the desired word, schedule the incentive. 

It could be an extra 10 minutes outside playing, free choice on the computers, bring a stuffed friend to school day, or even a popcorn treat while silent reading.  Make it be fun and it doesn’t have to cost a ton of money or time out of your day.

Using Encouragement and Praise Effectively

Encouragement and praise are powerful tools for promoting student engagement. When used effectively, they can motivate students, boost their confidence, and reinforce positive behaviors. As a teacher, it is important to use encouragement and praise in a way that is genuine, specific, and meaningful. 

One effective strategy is to provide specific praise that highlights the effort and progress of the student. Instead of simply saying “good job,” try to be more specific by saying something like “I can see how hard you worked on this assignment, and it really paid off.” This type of specific praise can help students feel valued and motivated to continue putting in effort. Another effective strategy is to use encouragement and praise as a way to reinforce positive behaviors. 

When you notice a student demonstrating a desired behavior, such as participating in class discussions or helping a classmate, make sure to acknowledge and praise that behavior. This can help reinforce the behavior and encourage other students to follow suit. Additionally, it is important to be genuine in your praise and encouragement. 

Students can often tell when praise is insincere or generic, so make sure to be authentic in your interactions with students. By using encouragement and praise effectively, you can help promote student engagement and create a positive classroom environment.

Implementing Rewards and Incentives

Rewards and incentives can be effective tools for promoting student engagement. When used thoughtfully, they can motivate students, reinforce positive behaviors, and create a sense of excitement and achievement. However, it is important to use rewards and incentives in a way that is fair, consistent, and aligned with the goals of the classroom. 

One effective strategy is to use rewards and incentives as a way to recognize and celebrate student achievements. Consider implementing a system of rewards for academic accomplishments, such as completing assignments on time or achieving a certain grade on a test. Another effective strategy is to use rewards and incentives as a way to promote positive behaviors. 

For example, you could implement a system of rewards for participation in class discussions or for demonstrating kindness and respect towards classmates. It is important to make sure that rewards and incentives are aligned with the values and expectations of the classroom. Additionally, it is important to use rewards and incentives in moderation. 

Over-reliance on rewards can lead to a decrease in intrinsic motivation and a focus on external rewards rather than genuine interest in learning. By implementing rewards and incentives thoughtfully, you can promote student engagement and create a positive classroom environment.

Promoting student engagement is essential for creating a positive learning environment where students feel motivated, supported, and valued.

By understanding the importance of student engagement and implementing positive reinforcement techniques such as creating a positive classroom environment, using encouragement and praise effectively, implementing rewards and incentives thoughtfully, providing constructive feedback, fostering collaboration and participation, and empowering students through choice and autonomy, teachers can help promote student engagement and create an environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed academically.

What other ideas can you think of?  I would love to hear them in the comments below!

Have fun “partying” and I will talk to you soon,

~Charity