Thursday, January 26, 2012

Feels Like Home

How many different management systems have we all tried in our rooms?  Over the past 18 years I've lost count for myself.  As my philosophy and pedagogy have continually shifted, so has management.  I so love what I've been doing the past several years though.  Sure, it may change in the future, but it feels like home right now.

Over the years I've gradually gone from 5 to 3 to 1 rule.   It's all Love and Logic's fault that I'm down to one and only one, but I'm not sure I need others when one covers all the bases.

Then combine my one rule with Debbie Diller's document system from Literacy Work Stations.  Each child's name is written on an index card that's attached to a clipboard.  I make notes throughout the day concerning behavior that are later transferred to this clipboard for safe keeping.  It's pretty slick to keep all my notes in one place that can easily go home and back again.  

The privacy factor is probably my favorite part of the whole deal.  There are no public records kept of the wrongs of others.  Yep, it feels like home and hopefully feels like home to my kids too.
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10 comments:

  1. I like that you have just one rule. What kind of notes would you put on the index cards? Would there be consequences for certain behaviors, if so, what would those be? I am interested in the way you are running management. Thanks!

    http://lightafire3.blogspot.com

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  2. Management is a tough one to deal with...(and to keep records of). Yours system looks great! =)
    Jennifer
    First Grade Blue SKies

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  3. Very cool! I have been trying to figure out the best way to record behavior all year. Love the way you do it!

    Ms. Smith
    Adventures of Ms. Smith

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  4. I love the way you are recording behavior notes! I have recently tried printing all of their names on Avery address labels and sticking that on my clipboard so I have all of their names, right there when I need it. Thanks for the suggestion! I love your one rule! Happy Friday!!!

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  5. This is a great way to have documentation of each child for each day! I would think this makes it so much easier to look back to see if there are any patterns occuring. Love it!
    Lori
    Conversations in Literacy

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  6. Thank you to everyone (Julie, Jennifer, Ms. Smith, Sandy, and Lori) for all your comments. I love that you came by and left a note.

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  7. Julie, I hope I can answer your questions.
    1. I write quick words or phrases about behavior, from what goes on in the classroom to specials to recess. (ie. disrespectful words, interrupting, Daily 5, talkative during directions, etc.)

    2. There are consequences, but there's not a set progression that students work their way through. I try my best to make the consequence fit the crime. So, for example, if a child is having a hard time sitting with us, maybe they get to sit at their desk until they're ready to return. If a child is late from recess, then they need to hang out with a few a minutes of their next recess. It all just depends.

    I'm not sure if this helped. I love the questions though. Don't hesitate to ask more.

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  8. Can you explain HOW they're attached to the clipboard? Is it tape? I can't figure out what you're using to get them stuck on there.

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    Replies
    1. Cathy, yes I used a small piece of tape at the top of each index card. Hope that helps. :)

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  9. I'm not sure if I understand the clipboard. Can we see an example of one without the kids name on it. I'm more of a visual learner. Thanks

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