Regardless of the character trait—whether it be self-control, respect, kindness, tolerance, fairness, honesty, empathy, integrity or any other—every trait relies on responsibility. No positive character trait can exist without it. In addition, none can be mandated or given.
These traits are not inborn. They need to be learned. This requires teaching.
Part I of the Discipline Without Stress Teaching Model is the foundation for promoting responsibility. WHEN WE OMIT TEACHING AND PRACTICING PROCEDURES, WE ARE ACTUALLY DEPRIVING YOUNG PEOPLE OF THE OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME MORE RESPONSIBLE.
Following is a good classroom management checklist for schools. DO YOUR STUDENTS KNOW:
• How to enter your classroom quietly?
• What they should do right after the bell rings?
• How to pass up assignments?
• Where and how to turn in late work?
• How to distribute handouts you give them?
• How to retrieve their graded work?
• When to sharpen a pencil or get a tissue?
• When to request to use the restroom?
• When to talk?
• How to participate in classroom discussions?
• How to behave during a test?
• When to get a dictionary or classroom resource?
• What to do if they don’t have a pencil or paper?
• When to dig in their backpacks?
• How to keep backpacks out of walkways?
• How and when to move around the room?
• How to take, use, and return classroom supplies?
• How to appropriately use classroom equipment?
• How to throw away trash without disturbing others?
• When and how to clean up a work area?
• What to do if they finish an assignment early?
• When and how to work quietly?
• When they can read leisurely?
• How to behave during a classroom video and audio?
• How to record assignments in their planner?
• What information is available on your webpage?
• How to work cooperatively in groups?
• Evacuation plans during an emergency?
• How to work with a substitute teacher?
• How to exit the classroom at the end of the period?
HAVE YOU MODELED ALL OF THESE BEHAVIORS FOR THEM?
