Classroom Rules should be:

• Specific
• Positive
• Consequential
• Realistic
• Consensual

Examples or Classroom Rules:

• anybody can "pass" on an activity by saying "pass" or better still by using a codeword, such as "elephant" which is humorous, and makes light of the situation. Often children which would most benefit from speaking are the ones which don't say anything, but after a few sessions they usually build up enough confidence.
• there is an object/ talking stick (often chosen by the class): only the person holding this can talk. This is often a very powerful device which children quickly respect
• all others are in the active listening mode
• confidentiality - you may wish to have some form of this rule though there are potential difficulties here especially with parents. It is not possible to promise absolute confidentiality because of the possibility of disclosure.
• the teacher is part of the group and joins in the activities
• there are no "put downs" of others - though expression of negative feelings is OK such as: "I felt upset when Jordan called me that", rather than, "Jordan is a

Goals of learning:

What do students want to learn?

Why do they want to learn this?

How will they use this class time to achieve their hopes and dreams?

How can they respect the hopes and dreams of others?