M4 U2 Activity 1: Norms and Expectations
Project Description
Overview Norms and expectations in this activity are positively framed statements that focus on creating a safe learning environment. Norms are the basis of creating and managing a positive learning environment. In order to create a safe, engaging, and student-centered learning environment classroom norms and expectations should be clearly communicated and agreed-upon by all stakeholders in the classroom. Performance outcomes
Candidates establish three to five clear, concise, and positive classroom norms and expectations.
What will you do?
In the Virtual Classroom or Discussion Forum this week, discuss why norms and expectations are important. Share examples of norms and behavior expectations that you follow, have observed, or would like to integrate into the classroom. Use the Case Studies in the Activity Resources for reference if you have never taught a class before.
Complete step two of the “Learning Environment Plan” that you started in Unit 1, by writing your own norms and expectations. The norms and behavior expectations should be:
Framed positively
Applicable to all circumstances in the classroom
Lead to a safe learning environment
Modified for the virtual learning environment
Review at least two peers’ norms and expectations to share ideas and make recommendations based on your research.
Report requirements
Section on Norms and Expectations in the Learning Environment Plan
Two Peer Reviews
(The above information was cited from the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program)
My Work
Classroom Norms and Behavior Expectations: Classroom norms are the foundation of a safe, engaging, and student-centered learning environment. List 3-5 clear, concise, and positively framed norms and expectations that will guide the learning environment.
Universal and Simple: Focus on some themes or big ideas that might include respect and integrity. Do not include every possible rule or policy you might need; rather generate a few overarching norms that encompass many rules.
Positive: Norms are positive statements about what students and teachers do in order to learn and collaborate effectively. Avoid negative norms (i.e. “Do not…” “No…”).
Collaborative: Involve your students in developing and discussing norms and expectations. This allows them to contribute and gives them ownership of the class.
Physical Classroom:
Try your best:
Don’t be scared to make mistakes, and learn from mistakes.
Share students' failures and how they overcame them.
Ask for help
Be respectful
Respect the space: Take care of class materials
Respect yourself: advocate for yourself, ask for help, be honest
Respect each other: use kind language, help each other, keep your hands to yourself
Be prepared
Bring materials needed for class
Arrive on time
Go to the toilet before class
Check your schedule
Be kind
Be helpful to peers and support each other
Use positive language
Strategies or Modifications for Learning Environment
Physical Classroom:
Procedures scavenger hunt: have students roam the room to learn procedures and norms
Celebrate student achievement (posting student work, praising hard work/effort/thank you for…)
Model respect toward the students
Post norms/expectations in room
Develop a class charter as a class activity
Model and practice procedures, like when to use the bathroom or pencil sharpener
Virtual Classroom:
Active in learning - Positive reinforcement- acknowledge students when they participant and/or complete assignments
Be Respectful- Develop a class charter or social contract where students develop their own set of expectations for themselves and each other. Have a student type ideas out on a Google Doc to really keep this process in the hands of the students.
Be Present- Giving the students a voice in what or how they learn the information will keep the task relevant to their interests and needs. Build a survey or question system to gauge how they prefer to learn…monthly or quarterly.
Resources
Establishing Classroom Norms & Expectations
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