Setting rules in the classroom is important for establishing routine and encouraging the best from your students. Rules set a foundation for a positive learning environment where students learn, grow, and thrive. But every classroom is a little different. When you are considering what rules to have in your classroom, be sure to take your school culture and individual students' circumstances into account.
But how do you set classroom rules that students will follow? One way is to involve your students in the process. When they take part in making the rules, they are more likely to understand, respect, and follow them.
9 examples of classroom rules to integrate in your classroom
Here are a few classroom rule ideas to consider for your classroom. You can use this list as a starting point to create your own set of adaptable rules with student involvement.
1. Be on time
Punctuality is a great habit to learn at school. Students should know that being on time is essential to keep the classroom running smoothly. The same rule should be followed after lunch or recess breaks.
2. Be respectful
Treat others the way you want to be treated. Respect for teachers and peers should be practiced until it becomes second nature. There should be a zero-tolerance policy for impolite behavior or bullying. You could also encourage kindness and extending a helping hand to others.
3. Finish work on time
Unless an extension is provided by the teacher, all work or assignments should be submitted on time. This is how students learn to respect deadlines. It’s an essential skill that will serve them well into adulthood.
4. Keep the classroom tidy
Students are responsible for keeping their classroom neat and clean. Remind them to use trash cans (and recycling bins) properly. At the end of the period, students should work together to put supplies back where they belong and clean up any messes they spot.
5. Don’t disturb others
While it’s tempting to chat with peers, it can be distracting for other students (and the teacher). Students should know that they should devote their full attention to the lesson. When a student needs to ask a question, they should raise their hand.
6. Ask permission before leaving class
If students need to leave your class for any reason, such as to use the restroom, they should politely ask for your permission and/or use a hall pass.
7. Line up quietly and wait your turn
Students should be advised to stand politely in the queue and patiently await their turn (e.g., leaving class for lunch). Students should also be taught to respect each other’s personal space.
8. Participate in classroom activities
Activities in the classroom are an essential part of the learning process. Every student should take part. This is a good opportunity for students to realize their potential and to learn how to take responsibility for their own actions. Plus, team activities can build leadership skills.
9. Respect each other’s property
Each student should care not only for their own property, but also for the property of their peers and the school. Students should ask for permission before borrowing another student’s belongings and should take good care of them.
Set classroom rules that are best for your class
These are some general examples of classroom rules that can help students succeed in your classroom. You could hang posters around your room to remind them of the expectations. It’s important to emphasize that rules make the classroom a safer and more enjoyable place for everyone.
This article was adapted from a blog post initially developed by the education technology company Classcraft, which was acquired by HMH in 2023. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of HMH.
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