Kayla Pfeifer

Dr. Justin Henry

EDU 34600

01 December 2019

1. My personal philosophy on classroom management and motivation revolves around

respect. My absolute goal with inspiring my students to behave appropriately for the

classroom environment can be identified by how I communicate with my students. I

realize that my behavior sets an example for how adultlike, mature behavior would look

like to students. If my students can see that I take myself seriously, carry myself

confidently, and overall know what a well-managed classroom looks like, then they will

know that I already have a set of expectations for myself and my classes on day one.

Through my appropriate behavior, I do not want to appear bothered, annoyed, or as

someone who thinks that they are beyond their students. While I deserve respect from my

students as their educator, I realize that my entire classroom will be made up of humans.

As I was once in their positions as a student, I would prefer to take the time in my

classroom to relate with my students, rather than completely hold myself above them as

an adult.

As for motivating students, I have found that I struggle most with motivating students

who have plenty of potential to succeed but do not want to make any efforts. This is an

aspect of teaching which my philosophy is not entirely clear on, though I believe that

students generally want to do well. I have realized that many students sell themselves short

and do not see the same potential in themselves that I do as a teacher. As I go through my
 Pfeifer 2

student teaching process, I would like to discover how I can motivate these students and

convince them of their talents and strengths.

2. Classroom Rules Contract:

 It is expected that you all treat each other with the same respect that you would like to

receive. As your teacher, I will undoubtedly give you time to catch a break, but I will

need to receive attention from you all during lesson time so that we can remain up-to-

speed in this class. I very much look forward to getting to know you all, so knowing that

we can all give each other the same level of respect makes this class even more exciting!

 No food is allowed in the classroom without permission. I understand that some of you

may get hungry, so I do not mind snacks, as long as you give me a heads-up and clean up

after yourself. Water is always allowed.

 Late work will be accepted for one week after the due date. However, your grade may be

deducted by 10% with each passing day.

 Absences happen – there is a file on the wall which will provide copies of what you may

have missed. Feel free to contact me for an update on the class if you are absent!

 Headphones and electronic devices are not allowed unless I permit it. For example, if you

are having an emergency and may have to contact your mom during class, let me know

before class begins so that I can allow it. During independent work time, I may tell you if

you can use your headphones as well, as I realize that music may help you with studying.

 Make sure that all your work is original – do not copy and paste work from the internet as

this is plagiarism. Plagiarism will always result in a zero!