How to Establish Classroom Beliefs
A Classroom Beliefs explanation and a Lesson Plan to establish the belief of respect can be downloaded at the end of this post.
Establishing classroom beliefs, rather than classroom rules, is a highly effective way to encourage appropriate behaviour and build a sense of community in your classroom. Expected behaviour is based on the four beliefs in this statement.
We believe in being respectful, safe, honest and responsible.
How to Establish the Four Beliefs in Your Classroom
Step #1
Present the belief statement. Explain that teachers have the “extra important job” of helping students to make sure they are being respectful, safe, honest, and responsible. Of course, teachers also need to follow these beliefs.
Step #2
Over the course of 4 days, read books that relate to one of the beliefs. Then create anchor charts with students to outline what each belief looks like and sounds like.
Step #3
Anytime students demonstrate positive behaviour, provide feedback related to these beliefs.
examples:
You are being very responsible this morning by getting all your morning jobs done without being reminded! Great job of being responsible!
I noticed you stopped running in the hallway because you remembered it is safer to walk. You showed the other kids how to be safe. Well done!
Step #4
Similarly, when a student’s behaviour isn’t what it should be, ask the student which belief he/she is forgetting.
example: A student pushed another student out of the line.
Teacher: Which belief did you forget just now?
Student: I don’t know.
Teacher: Is it respectful to (student who was pushed) when you push her out of the line? Why not?
Is it safe to push other people? Why not? What could you do that would be respectful and safe?
Download your copy of the explanation for Establishing Classroom Beliefs and a lesson plan to establish the belief of respect.
If you find the respect lesson plan helpful, you might be interested in the full resource. Click on the My Shop button to see the Establishing Classroom Beliefs resource.
