Advice with Classroom Behaviour

[kerriannb]

This is what my sister says:

I would probably talk to the teacher first. Is it RE in a public school or 'Christian Studies' in a private school? If it is RE you need to get the teacher on board first. Having said that, I think it is OK to tell the students that you have different expectations than their teacher. I'm sure if they have a different PE teacher etc., they have different expectations. Let the teacher know what you expect and maybe she can reinforce that with the students, even if it is only for your lesson. Check out what the school policy / motto is and try and remind the students of this as well.
Maybe take the rewards with you and show the class, as a bit of motivation.
I think it is important that you keep going the same way you have been, even though it is a struggle, you can't let the students 'win'. If you back down on your rules, any respect that is growing will disappear.
Make sure you really praise any good behaviour, either verbally or with mini rewards.
And don't forget to pray.
I hope this helps.

Peta

[Ingeborg]

I only read this now, Gayle ... I agree with the idea of focusing on positive behaviour, but if there isn't that much of it, it will be difficult. I also think talking to the teacher is a good idea ... I don't have any new ideas, just think the girls said it all !

[ScrapHappy]

Gayle, are you teaching as a voluntary thing, joining with other volunteers from various local churches teaching scripture classes? That's what happens in our local area, and there is usually a pastor or minister from one of the churches who is the contact person and co-ordinator for the classes - if that's the case where you are, then maybe having a chat with that person might be helpful? Can he/she give you any feedback on other volunteer's experience with the school in the past, or the staff? This person would be one with an ear worth bending because they would have experience with other volunteers who may have come against the same issues you are, whether in this school or others, and could give you some advice or encouragement or guidance? They could certainly pray with you, and that would be a bonus

Will keep you in my prayers Gayle, and dont forget that the other two classes are doing really well with you

[Ange]

Gayle it's such a tough one!

Firstly, I would talk to the teacher. As a teacher myself, I try really hard not to undermine the person leading the session. And although backup can be great, sometimes it tells the kids that they don't have to listen to the visitor as it is the teacher that's still in charge. Does that make sense? So this early in the year, I would still probably be sitting back and watching to give you a chance to find your own rhythm. So talk to the teacher. Ask them what they suggest, as quite possibly they are having just as much trouble.

Classes like this are tough (sounds like my own this year).

What we have started in our room at the moment is a "star" chart. It's a laminated poster and if the kids are doing the right thing, they get to write their name on the chart with whiteboard marker. Then at the end of the session, those who's name is there gets a reward (generally just a sticker) but you could use whatever you felt most comfortable with.

We also have a RED chart - like a STOP/unacceptable behaviour chart. If they make a different choice then they have to write their name on that list and they owe "lunch" time, or they end up in detention. This fits with our school behaviour management plan, so ask the teacher if they have a whole school approach etc..

Also ask if the class itself has a reward program that you can use. They may already be motivated towards a system you can become part of it.

Let us know how it goes, and I'm happy to talk to you more about things you can try. Tough classes seem to be my "speciality". (In other words for whatever reason I get them a lot!! LOL!!!).

[Gayle]

I really appreciate everyones help and advice!!

I will give you my class times incase you want to pray...this is in WA time so 2 hours behind QLD and 3 hours behind NSW and VIC
Tues 2-2.30
Wed 2-2.30 This is my class that needs extra attention
Thurs 12-12.30

Will let you know how I go tomorrow...Praying God makes some changes

[Gayle]

lol..had to giggle a bit. I went to my class today and the principal told me tomorrows class is cancelled due to the swimming carnival. So I have another full week before I see 'that' class.

[Scrapper 25]

Gotta smile at that one. More time for us all to pray about it,

[ScrapHappy]

[MaryC]

Awesome news!

[Gayle]

If anyone reads this in the next 45mins...I have my CRE class at 2-2.30 WA time and would appreciate prayer covering.
Thanks ladies