If and when students violate class rules use these effective consequences:
1st time a rule is broken: A brief reminder of the rules. This can be a mere nod to where the class rules have been displayed in the classroom.
2nd time: A discreet conference with student DIRECTLY after class.
3rd time: The student’s desk is moved or switched. The teacher arranges the desk rearrangement AFTER class. This can be away from a particular student, to a place of less stimuli, and/or closer to where the teacher is. Students must earn the right to move his or her desk back.
4th time: (Thanks to extremely interesting and informative conversations with my PLN, colleagues, and administration I’ve decided to change this consequence.)
5th time (or an extreme rule breaking [e.g. violence, gross disrespect]): A student is sent to the principal and does not come back to class until a parent has met with the principal and/or the teacher
In my ten years of teaching, I’ve only had one student break 5 rules in one day.
Everyday the student starts again with a clean slate. In other words, if John breaks 2 rules Monday then he enters class Tuesday with zero strikes against him.
Consequences must be fair and consistent as humanly possible. It’s hard to always follow through, but the longer you are consistent the easier your school year will be!
© 2010 David Mach