classroom rules

Definition of Classroom Rules and Procedures

Rules and procedures each refer to stated expectations regarding behavior. A rule identifies general expectations or standards for behavior. For example, the rule “Respect other persons and their prop¬erty” covers a large set of behaviors that should always be practiced. Rules frequently indicate unacceptable behavior as well as expected, appropriate behavior, although teachers sometimes manage to write rules that are only positively stated (for example, “We ask permission before talking in class”). In such instances the unacceptable behavior is implied (“Don’t talk without permission”). In addition to general rules, many teachers will have a rule or two governing a specific behavior that could become an issue or that they want to prevent (for example, “Gum chewing is allowed,” or “Gum chewing is not allowed”).

Procedures also communicate expectations for behavior. They are usually applied in a specific activity, and they are usually directed at accomplishing something rather than prohibiting some behavior or defining a general standard. For example, you will set up procedures with your students for collecting assignments, turning in late work, participating in class discussions, using the bathroom, and so on. Some procedures (such as use of equipment at a center) are sufficiently com¬plex or critical that you may want to post guidelines in addition to discussing them with the students. However, many procedures are not written because they are very simple or because their specificity and frequency of use allow students to learn them rapidly.