Syllabus as Tool to Establish Classroom Norms

I think that making teacher expectations explicit is the key to a smooth functioning classroom. As my field instructor says, “how can you expect kids to do what you want them to do if you don’t tell them what it is?” My cooperating teacher puts his expectations, policies, and teaching philosophy on the syllabus. The syllabus must be signed by the students and their parents within a week of the beginning of class. Requiring that the students and their parents enter a “contractual agreement" to these expectations shows the students that these policies will be enforced. The expectation listed on the syllabus as “ Be respectful of yourself and others and yours, other’s school property” establishes clear standards of conduct. This expectation promotes a safe learning environment in which all students are expected to be treated fairly. The statement “Be prepared. Be in class on time everyday. Bring all necessary materials” not only establishes standards for conduct but also establishes a daily routine of being prepared and on time for class. I think that it is imperative that students understand that it is an expected student routine to walk into the classroom everyday with needed materials. These are a couple among many of the positive highlights of the syllabus.

I plan to use the syllabus in the same way as my cooperating teacher when I get my own classroom.

What do you think about this idea? What do you do to establish norms in your classroom? I look forward to hearing your ideas.