Middle school students start school with enthusiasm. Most do not sleep through first period; they are wide awake and full of energy. Teachers can use the process of making classroom rules to harness the energy for positive results.
Make Class Rules Together
One way to get students to take ownership in class rules is to have them help make their own. Most middle school students know what is expected of them since they have been in school for several years. They know what drives them crazy and what teachers need students to do on a daily basis.
However, if they are allowed to help create the rules, they may be more likely to follow them. Teachers need to tell the students right away that the class rules cannot contradict any school rules.
Brainstorm Classroom Policy
Teachers need to hang up a large piece of chart paper. On the paper, the teacher should write the class period and "Class Rules." Next, the teacher can begin a brainstorming session with students and write down everything they say. Of course, the ideas written down should be school appropriate.
Then, the whole class, including the teacher, must be in agreement with each rule. If students or the teacher disagrees with a rule, the group must come to a consensus or a compromise on the specific rule.
Consensus and Compromise
Middle school students tend to be boisterous about their feelings. Some do not know how to compromise or how to make a compromise within a large group. Teaching the students the process of compromise is as important as making the rules.
One way to teach students to compromise is to use the finger/fist method. Students who really like a rule can put up all five or four fingers to show that they like a rule. If they somewhat like a rule, they can put up three or two fingers. If students strongly dislike a rule, they can put up one finger or show a fist. When a fist or one finger is used, students must clarify why they strongly dislike the rule.
In order for a single rule go on the final list of rules, every class member must show at least two fingers in order to have a rule. This is one way to teach consensus and compromise.
This activity can bring students together and teach them how to work together. In the process, they will create the classroom rules to keep them working together the rest of the school year.
Kellie Hayden - She is a 19 year veteran teacher with a master's degree in education and NBCT, 2000. Kellie teaches 8th grade language arts, TAG and ...
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