Is there a difference between rules and procedures? Yes there certainly is!
Rules are non-negotiables. Actions that students must do and not do. Actions that have consequences.
Procedures are the methods and routines you use to run your classroom.
However, the two are often mixed. In my classroom I have two rules:
* Be a respectful student * Be a responsible students
Respect and responsibility are two words that kids have heard many times by the time they reach 6th grade. But unfortunately many do not fully understand what they mean. At the start of any course (school year) I always demonstrate what these two words LOOK like in the classroom. In order to do this, I go over specific examples of what students can DO to be a respectful student and a responsible student.
I always provide a list to students. Together we read through and discuss. I always ask for questions, and I always ask for ideas from students - anything else they would like to see added. This helps with buy-in from students. Then, if they can all agree to do their best to follow the rules and procedures, I have them sign, indicating their agreement.
Rules are non-negotiables. Actions that students must do and not do. Actions that have consequences.
Procedures are the methods and routines you use to run your classroom.
However, the two are often mixed. In my classroom I have two rules:
* Be a respectful student * Be a responsible students
Respect and responsibility are two words that kids have heard many times by the time they reach 6th grade. But unfortunately many do not fully understand what they mean. At the start of any course (school year) I always demonstrate what these two words LOOK like in the classroom. In order to do this, I go over specific examples of what students can DO to be a respectful student and a responsible student.
I always provide a list to students. Together we read through and discuss. I always ask for questions, and I always ask for ideas from students - anything else they would like to see added. This helps with buy-in from students. Then, if they can all agree to do their best to follow the rules and procedures, I have them sign, indicating their agreement.

Welcome! I'm Hillary Midgley, a veteran 6th grade teacher. This website is dedicated to helping fellow teachers become the teacher they want to be. I strive to provide resources and guidance to help teachers in as many ways possible. Learn more about me here.
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