Why Are Classroom Rules Important?

There are several reasons why classroom rules are important to not only the beginning teacher, but also for the "seasoned" teacher.  Classroom rules are a crucial part of a teacher's overall classroom management plan.  They should be implemented by the teacher on the first class meeting day with students and reinforced daily.

The following list contains some of the reasons why classroom rules are important:

• Rules help to limit disruptions.
• Rules help to organize instruction.
• Rules encourage students to learn self-control.
• Rules help students to learn to make wise decisions.
• Rules help students to monitor their own behavior.
• Rules help students to understand that there are both consequences and rewards for their actions.

Writing classroom rules in a positive manner will help students to see them as an important part of their learning environment.  Students need to know how each classroom rule is important to everyday life and how each classroom rule will lead to their success in the teacher's classroom.

Remember to:

• State the Rule
• Teach the Rule
• Post the Rule
• Model the Rule
• Reinforce the Rule
• Teach the Rule, again
• Reinforce the Rule, again