Building Better Behavior

Dianne McKinley
Jun 23
2 min read

6 Essential Steps to Create Behavior Expectations That Actually Work

By Tracy Harrison

Students seated at desks raise hands to be called on by teacher at the front of the classroom by the chalkboard.

Creating effective classroom behavior expectations can feel overwhelming. While most educators understand the importance of solid classroom management, establishing rules that actually work requires a strategic approach. Here are six proven steps to transform your classroom management experience.

1. Create Effective Expectations

The foundation of successful classroom behavior management starts with well-crafted expectations. Your classroom rules should be clear, concise, and purposeful.

Keep your behavior expectations limited to 3-5 total. While it might be tempting to create an extensive classroom behavior plan, research shows that fewer, clearer rules lead to better results.

Make sure your expectations are:

Stated positively
Simple enough for all students to memorize
Generic enough to cover multiple situations
Posted visibly throughout your space

2. Make Expectations Universal

When developing classroom management techniques, focus on broader expectations that work across different situations. Instead of numerous specific rules, create core guidelines like:

Be Respectful
Follow Directions
Be Safe

a Chalkboard background shows chalk drawn lightbulbs with the statement "Know the Rules'.

Each of these fundamental classroom rules can address multiple scenarios while remaining memorable for students of all ages.

3. Teach and Review Regularly

One of the most common classroom management mistakes is only reviewing expectations at the start of the school year. For effective student behavior management, schedule regular reviews:

At least quarterly
After each school break
Before historically challenging times
During transition periods

4. Communicate Your Schedule Clearly

Colorful class schedule chart for implementing and displaying in a classroom.

Uncertainty leads to behavioral challenges. Make your daily classroom management routine visible and accessible to everyone.

For younger students or those with special needs, implement these behavior management strategies:

Display visual schedules with pictures
Provide transition warnings
Clearly communicate any schedule changes

5. Assess and Support

Before implementing any classroom expectations, ensure your students can meet them. This crucial step in behavior management often gets overlooked.

Consider these questions:

Can all students complete the required tasks?
Do they have the necessary skills?
What support systems are in place for those who need help?

6. Maintain Consistency

Consistency is the cornerstone of effective classroom behavior management. This means:

All adults enforce rules similarly
Expectations apply equally to all students
Accommodations are implemented consistently
Consequences are predictable and fair

A group of adults are seated in a circle and are collaborating with papers in hand as they work together.

Making It Work in Your Classroom

Remember that clear classroom behavior expectations:

Prevent problem behaviors
Create a positive learning environment
Help students feel secure and confident
Save teaching time in the long run

Looking for personalized behavior management solutions? Reach out to INcompassing Education and discover how we can help you create lasting positive change.

Contact Us.

Coming next month in our Building Better Behavior series:

"5 Proven Ways to Build Strong Student Relationships in Your First 30 Days"

- Don't miss these crucial relationship-building strategies for the start of the school year!