Creating a Supportive Classroom

Aisha Squalli

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Creating a Supportive Classroom

Support disruptive students effectively

This lesson aims to equip students with strategies to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment. By understanding the importance of respect, kindness, and effective communication, students will learn how to manage disruptive behaviors and support peers with explosive behavior. This lesson is crucial for fostering a positive learning environment where all students feel valued and understood.

Audience

5th grade students

Time

30 mins

Approach

Trauma-Informed Teaching, Project-Based Learning, Active Learning, Inquiry-Based Learning

Materials

Video: Habits of a Good Student for Children, Worksheet: Classroom Strategies, Discussion: Supporting Peers, and Activity: Role-Playing Scenarios

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of a supportive classroom environment.
Introduce the lesson objective: to learn strategies for supporting peers who may be disruptive.

Step 2

Video Viewing

6 mins

Show the video Habits of a Good Student for Children.
Ask students to note down key habits that contribute to a positive classroom environment.

Step 3

Discussion

7 mins

Facilitate a discussion using the 'Supporting Peers' questions.
Encourage students to share their thoughts on how they can help peers who struggle with behavior.

Step 4

Activity: Role-Playing

7 mins

Divide students into small groups.
Assign each group a scenario from the 'Role-Playing Scenarios' activity.
Have students act out the scenario and discuss how they can apply supportive strategies.

Step 5

Worksheet Completion

5 mins

Distribute the 'Classroom Strategies' worksheet.
Allow students to complete the worksheet individually, reflecting on what they learned.

Step 6

Closure

5 mins

Recap the key points of the lesson.
Encourage students to apply these strategies in their daily interactions.

Discussion

Supporting Peers

A discussion to explore how students can support peers who may be disruptive or have explosive behavior.

What are some ways we can help a classmate who is having a hard time following rules?

Encourage empathy and understanding. Discuss the importance of patience and offering help.

How can we create a classroom environment where everyone feels safe and respected?

Focus on respect, kindness, and open communication. Highlight the role of each student in maintaining a positive environment.

Worksheet

Classroom Strategies

A worksheet to help students reflect on strategies to support a positive classroom environment.

List three habits of a good student that you learned from the video.

Think about behaviors that help maintain a positive classroom atmosphere.

Describe a situation where you helped a classmate who was struggling. What did you do?

Reflect on past experiences where you showed support or kindness.

What is one new strategy you will try to support your classmates?

Consider what you learned from the discussion and role-playing activity.

Reading

Teacher Strategies for Managing Disruptive Behavior

A handout providing strategies for teachers to manage students who frequently swear and yell, focusing on maintaining a calm environment and using positive reinforcement.

Strategies for Managing Disruptive Behavior

Stay Calm and Composed: Maintain a calm demeanor to prevent escalating the situation. Use a soft voice and controlled body language.
Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate classroom rules and the consequences of swearing and yelling. Reinforce these expectations regularly.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge and reward positive behavior when students express themselves appropriately.
Provide Alternatives: Teach students alternative ways to express frustration, such as using 'I feel' statements or taking a break.
Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet area in the classroom where students can go to calm down if they feel overwhelmed.
Engage in Private Conversations: Address disruptive behavior privately to avoid embarrassing the student in front of peers.
Involve Students in Solutions: Encourage students to participate in creating solutions for managing their behavior, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Seek Support: Collaborate with school counselors or psychologists for additional strategies and support tailored to individual students.