How do I create a positive learning environment and
establish a respectful relationship with the class?
Successful occasional teachers have compiled the following tips for creating a positive learning
environment:
O Greet students at the door.
O Smile.
O Introduce yourself.
O Tell the students something about yourself.
O Explain why you are there.
O Allow students an opportunity to introduce themselves or each other.
O Allow students to take ownership of their classroom by asking them to explain the established
rules and routines.
O Try to adhere to these rules and routines as closely as possible.
O If a temporary rule or routine is required provide the students with a reason for its need; record it
on the board as a reminder.
O Treat each student with respect and dignity; it will be returned to you.
O Call each student by name (use name tags or cards).
O Be an active, attentive listener.
O Be fair and consistent.
O Maintain a confident composure.
O Encourage appropriate behaviour by acknowledging it.
O Do an icebreaker activity.
What can I do to encourage appropriate behaviour?
First and foremost, be proactive. Preventing discipline problems is easier and more effective than
responding to them. When a well-planned, stimulating learning environment is created, most behaviour
problems can be avoided. Student behaviour may appear to be more disorderly when an occasional
teacher is in the classroom because some students may take advantage of your lack of familiarity with
the rules and routines. In other words, they try to test the established limits.
How can I be proactive?
O Arrive early.
O Review lesson plans.
O Gather the necessary materials required for the lessons (e.g. photocopy a class set of
worksheets).
O Identify potential times for off-task misbehaviour, such as transitions or when work is completed.
Try to make transitions quickly and smoothly by planning ahead and knowing what comes next.
Also, have some prepared activities appropriate for the grade and/or division. These may include
puzzles, trivia, and word games. When students are busy and on-task, there is a lower rate of
misbehaviour.
O Check the daybook, calendar, or memos to see if there will be any alterations to the regular
school day (e.g. assemblies, drills).
O Write an outline of the day’s activities on the board for students to see.
O Locate a seating plan or be prepared to make one.
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