At the beginning of the year, the students from all grade levels brainstormed rules for the Art room. I brainstorm with the students because I feel their input on what is expected of them will establish ownership of the space they learn. To make a positive learning environment, students must feel their ideas, opinions, and input are of significance for learning to occur.
Rules and Expectations are the following: (designed by the students):
1. No Running
2. Be prepared
3. Golden Rule
4. Clean your mess
5. Respect others
6. Raise your hand
7. Try your best
8. Have fun
During every class when situations arise, I always use their rules to reinforce behavior that either reflects obeying or disobeying their rules. Doing this shows the students that they are breaking or following their own rules. The students positively respond to this style of atmosphere because they know they created their own expectations in the art room. I make a point to tell them I respect them and their ideas are important to me.
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