A smoothly run classroom doesn’t happen by chance. Teachers carefully craft classroom management plans that cover rules, routines, and more to support students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. In this article, you will learn how to design an effective classroom management plan for you and your students.
What is a classroom management plan?
A classroom management plan serves as a guide in creating a positive learning environment where students feel safe and supported. Classroom management plans detail expectations for classroom behaviors, like respecting others, as well as providing instructions for classroom routines, like lining up for lunch. A classroom management plan can also include classroom rules, rewards, and consequences. These sets of expectations and procedures give students structure and hold them accountable for their behavior so optimal learning can occur.
Goals for a classroom management plan
There are many goals for a classroom management plan. An effective classroom management plan should aim to:
- Create a positive learning environment.
- Establish clear expectations.
- Engage students in learning.
- Manage student behavior.
What is the importance of a classroom management plan?
A classroom management plan is paramount in maximizing student learning. As noted by Koran and Koran’s research, “effective classroom management is necessary for effective learning.” When classroom norms and expectations are established, communicated, and practiced, students can self-manage to stay on task and engage in appropriate classroom behavior. Because a classroom management plan minimizes opportunities for disruptions, more instruction and, therefore, more learning takes place.
Having a classroom management plan also supports students’ overall well-being. Establishing clear rules and procedures, like keeping your hands to yourself, can prevent students from engaging in behavior that can harm others. Plus, these rules help students become more mindful of each other’s feelings. This helps students build respectful and healthy relationships with their peers and creates a sense of belonging.
What to include in a behavior management plan?
A behavior management plan is an integral part of effective classroom management. This refers to a formal written plan that maps out how to teach and reward positive behavior. The goal of a behavior management plan is to prevent and minimize misbehavior in the classroom.
A behavior management plan should include:
- Expectations: Set behavioral expectations when working independently, in small groups, or in a whole group.
- Rules: Establish rules for behavior in the classroom and throughout campus, like in the cafeteria or playground.
- Praise and rewards: Acknowledge and reward positive behavior. If your school uses PBIS, implement those rewards and incentives.
- Consequences: Establish reasonable and fair consequences for misbehavior.
Creating a classroom management plan
Wondering where to start in creating a classroom management plan? The following tips can help you develop your own.
Consider school policies.
Before developing your classroom management plan, review your school’s current policies and procedures. Align your classroom rules to the school policies in place and build from them.
Set up routines.
Every school day doesn’t look the same, but there are daily tasks that students will engage in, like walking in the hallway or sharpening a pencil. Establish routines for daily activities so students know the expected behavior.
Organize your space.
Design a space students can easily navigate. Label objects around the classroom and provide students with a tour. This way, they can locate what they need in the future. Also, consider designating areas where students can reflect and collect their thoughts, like a cool down corner or a book nook where students can quietly read.
Invite students to be part of the process.
As a class, discuss and create classroom rules. This can occur after a read-aloud where students identify values and qualities that they feel are important for a positive classroom climate, such as respect, kindness, and honesty. Then, together with your students, write an agreement that lists expectations for classroom behavior. When students are part of classroom management planning, it builds a sense of community within your class.
Model and practice procedures.
Take time to model and practice expectations and routines so students become familiarized with them. The first few weeks of school are a perfect time to practice routines.
Be consistent.
Consistently implement and follow through on classroom procedures, rules, rewards, and consequences. Responding to students’ behavior consistently helps establish clear expectations. This can better help students manage their behavior in class.
Work with families.
Clearly communicate with students’ parents and guardians about classroom expectations and rules. This helps establish a partnership between teachers and families to ensure student success.
Implementing an effective classroom management plan can increase productivity and promote student engagement. Most importantly, it can help create a space where all students feel welcomed and respected.
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