The first few weeks of school are bliss in the land of student behaviors! As a teacher, you worked very hard to make sure your classroom is a warm, yet engaging, learning environment. You have done an outstanding job of implementing a positive classroom management system. Since each year is different, you’ve made all the necessary changes to the way your classroom flows for your new students. Now the kids are secure with you as their teacher. You’re starting to see that they are comfortable with each other as well. This combination is something you want; however, it can bring out student behaviors that are distracting to all that you have worked for!
Why a Student Behavior Tracker?
There might be one or two students who are disruptive and cause your entire class to become distracted. You’ve tried some strategies to help these student(s) succeed. You want to stay positive and not take away rewards because of one or two students.
An important tip to remember is that discipline is not classroom management and there are times when a different approach should be taken. A Student Behavior Tracker that allows the student to set behavior or task goals each day may be your next step.
Student Behavior Goals may Include:
- Follows directions
- Stays focused during class instruction time
- Quiet in line
- Keep desk clean, organized, and free from toys
- Finish and turn in classwork for the day
- Raises hand before speaking
- Takes a deep breath when frustrated
- Self Start
How to Use a Student Behavior Tracker
When to Use the Student Behavior Book
Additionally, a student behavior book can be used simultaneously. I suggest using the behavior book for extreme or serious behavior incidents in your class. I try not to overuse the student behavior book. The behavior book gives the student a chance to be removed from the situation and reflect through writing/drawing what he or she did using a Think Sheet. This book will give you a record of what happened to either show the parents, write in the student behavior tracker or email the parents about the situation when you get your next break. I have the students leave the book open on my desk so it reminds me to contact the parent or take the appropriate action.
Lastly, small steps are still steps in the right direction. Stay positive and show your student that you are happy with the goal(s) he or she met. This can change the momentum of your student’s goals and eventually behavior!
Thanks for sharing your plan to avoid blanket punishments. Goal setting is so important. I enjoyed reading your post!
I love the idea of tracking student behaviors. I’ve just begun to add this to my practice in my classroom. I especially like the tracker you shared. Thank you!
Love that students are setting their own personalized goals to track! Great for student buy-in
The tracker idea is great. This will help the students with their goals.