Hennessy 1

Billy Hennessy
Dr. Ressler
EDN 322
3/8/2016
Promoting Positive Behavior by Preventing Misbehavior
1.

Use of P.A.T. time

Reward students with preferred activity time.
Still learning, but in preferred/enjoyable ways, such as games or movies.
Can allow for voice and choice for students by allowing them to pick what their PAT time is.
Must be earned through good behavior.
More effective if it is learning time, as opposed to recess or other non-academic time.
2. Reinforcing good behavior

When behavior is observed in the class, note it.

Allows that student to know that the behavior they are exhibiting is what is expected/desired by

the teacher.
Acknowledgement of good behavior allows that student to serve as a model for others.
3. Using proximity to maintain positive behavior

As students begin to lose focus or if bad behavior begins to develop during instruction, use

proximity to redirect them.

By moving near the students, they receive the message that you are aware of their actions and

that they should reevaluate what theyre doing.

Tapping a desk combined with a stern facial expression will inform students that they are
gearing towards misbehavior before the situation escalates to fully problematic behavior.
4. Clearly communicating expectations

By clearly communicating rules and procedures at the beginning of the year, you will

communicate to students how to demonstrate positive behavior.

Any additional expectations for behavior should be addressed before the students begin an

activity, so that they know what is expected going into it.

Gives students the ability to know what is expected and gives them a fair chance to implement
positive behaviors.
5. Create a person-centered classroom in which students are citizens, rather than tourists

Hennessy 2

Keeping students actively engaged in their learning will minimize opportunities/desires for

misbehavior.
By allowing them to take some control of their learning, they are more active and will have a

stronger sense of personal accomplishment, purpose, and pride in their work.

Allowing them to take some control of their learning can allow them to adapt the content in ways
that benefit them and interest them the most, resulting in less negative behavior.