Practical Power Tips for Whole School

Making Group Decisions and Agreements

Many schools are currently holding class meetings within their classrooms. And many times these groups of students are faced with making decisions, ranging from developing classroom norms to going out on activities.

Teachers, here are some PPTs to consider to help promote successful and result driven classroom meetings with your students. 

• Shift from my rules to our rules. This will communicate mutual responsibility and establish a positive classroom climate.

• Too many rules push the focus on the negative actions and stymies reinforcing positive behaviors. Catching wrongdoers becomes the payoff.

• At both levels, engage students in an authentic practice of conflict skills: clearly define problems, sharing all perspectives using active listening skills, while encouraging self-expressive skills. Furthermore, have students explore what’s negotiable or not: identify mutual interests, brainstorm possible solutions and reach mutual satisfying agreements.

Some Simple and Practical Classroom Agreements

1. We will let people finish what they have to say before responding or reacting.

2. Everyone has an opportunity to voice his or her opinion or feelings.

3. Take responsibility for speaking up.

4. Begin and end on time.

5. Speak the truth from your point of view.

6. Listen to others.

 

 

 

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Denver
Coach Federation