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Descriptor 1:
Consistently encourages and monitors student behavior subtly and responds to misbehavior swiftly.
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Clarification:
An effective classroom arrangement can create the physical learning conditions that support teaching and learning, including clear rules and procedures, along with fair and consistent consequences. This descriptor is tied to the Classroom Environment, Routines and Procedures dimension in that it is critical for teachers to establish and monitor behavior expectations. The teacher should be able to move and transition throughout the classroom to observe all students at all times and monitor their participation and behavior. Since desirable student behavior may vary depending on the type of activity and perhaps a change in instructional location, e.g., lab, outdoor instruction, field trips, etc., explicit expectations for behavior are important and should be reinforced. Positive student behavior is more likely to occur when structures, procedures, and positive reinforcement are in place. Effective teachers monitor students carefully and consistently to anticipate and detect early signs of misbehavior and intervene before the issues escalate. They also know which students are their 'high need' students and require specific behavior management strategies and attention. Providing students with specific feedback regarding the expected behavior to redirect them reinforces the desired behaviors. This includes citing the applicable procedure or rule that was violated and the behavior that is expected. Teachers with effective classroom management techniques know when and how to use specific techniques with certain students, because they know and understand their students' needs and potential behavior triggers.
Student feedback should be provided immediately when the student performs the desirable behavior. The feedback should specifically describe the behavior, effort, progress or accomplishments which meet the desired outcome and helps students understand what success looks like and how similar successes can be expected in the future. Consistency is the key factor in classroom management and managing student behavior.