The active teaching of rules involves the explicit instruction of students in classroom rules. Rules are clearly defined and displayed in the classroom. They are explained to students and demonstrated with clear examples provided. The teacher then looks for opportunities to reward students who display adherence to a rule and provides direct and immediate positive feedback about their behaviour. The strategy is applied to the whole class and should be used in conjunction with evidence based strategies including visual supports and reinforcement strategies. While research demonstrating this strategy directly impacts challenging behavior is lacking, it is a key feature of school wide positive behaviour support and considered good teaching practice.
Using the strategy
The steps involved in using the strategy include:
- determining the rules for the class
- displaying the rules for easy reference in the classroom
- explicit instructions in the rules
- providing students with examples of adherence to rules
- immediate positive reinforcement for adherence to rules.
Rules should be worded very simply. It is crucial that the rules are developmentally appropriate and achievable for all students.
Age group
All ages, with appropriate adjustments for age and ability.
- Preschool
- P–2
- 3–6
- High school
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