Assertive Discipline What does this mean for your

Assertive Discipline What does this mean for your classroom?

� What is assertive discipline? ◦ It is a classroom management tool. ◦ Created by the teacher. ◦ Implemented at the beginning of the year This model is made up of three major components. 1. Set of classroom rules. 2. Established positive reinforcements for the students that follow the rules. 3. Established consequences for the students that do not follow the rules.

Classroom Rules � Develop a small number of classroom rules ◦ Maximum of five – easier for students to remember � Use the broken record technique. ◦ Repeat the rules several times. ◦ Have the students write out the rules, take it home for their parents to review, and sign � Focus on observable behavior rules ◦ Should apply to classroom behavior every time Example: Raise your hand before speaking No talking while the teacher is talking

Positive Reinforcements � Positive recognition for students who follow the classroom rules. � Creates a positive learning environment. � Classroom recognition makes everyone responsible for classroom behavior. Examples of good behavior rewards: stamps, stickers, positive notes home, special privileges

Consequences � This should include a list of consequences. � Each consequence becoming more severe. � Make it age appropriate. � Make it something students will not enjoy. Example of consequences for bad behavior: Warning, name on the board, losing recess minutes, note home to parents, visit to the principal.

Pros of Assertive Discipline � It develops good classroom control. � Students know the expectations and the consequences. � It builds classroom respect. � Promotes a caring, respectful, positive leaning environment. � It is an easy plan for students and parents to understand. � It is an easy plan for teachers to implement.

Cons of Assertive Discipline � It may not fit your teaching style. � This model may not fit the needs of all students. � Teachers may misuse the control. � Teachers may not be consistent with all of the rules all of the time. � Teachers could lose credibility with the students.

Principles and assumptions � Assertive discipline is based on the assumption that the teachers are the leaders of the classroom. � It is the responsibility of each teacher to teach students about rules and expectations. � It is the responsibility of each teacher to enforce the consequences for misbehavior. � This is a proactive way to maintain classroom management. � The purpose is not to punish students, merely to provide guidance.

Principles and assumptions continued � If a rule is broken, do not accept excuses. � Teachers should use a soft but firm tone of voice. � Do not embarrass the student in front of the class.

Classroom management sample � Explain the rules, positive rewards, and consequences. � At the beginning of school, give each student a stamp sheet, positive reward and explain the brownie sheet. ◦ When a student is caught following the rules give them a stamp. ◦ When they get 10 stamps they get to put a piece of the brownie on the sheet. �When the brownie sheet is filled the classroom gets a reward. ◦ When they get their sheet filled they get a personal reward.

References Curwin, R. L. , Mendler, A. N. , & Mendler B. D. (2008). Discipline with dignity. New challenges, new solutions. (3 rd ed. ). 103 -124. Klotz, R. &. (n. d. ). Assertive discipline, the canter model. Retrieved September 17, 2012, from www. cehs. wright. edu/~cfinegan/. . . /Ede. . . /Assertive_Discipline. ppt Mc. Intyre, T. (n. d. ). Assertive discipline. Retrieved September 17, 2012, from http: //www. behavioradvisor. com/Assertive. Discipline. html Sandidge, R. F. (2006). Classroom management. Retrieved September 17, 2012, from Education. com, inc. : http: //www. education. com/reference/article/classroommanagement/