Dear Ask a Teacher,

How can I create a positive and productive classroom environment for all my students? I want my students to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas without fear of ridicule or risk of censure.

Sincerely,

Positively In Charge

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Hello, Positively in charge!

Teachers play an important role in setting the classroom environment. In fact, the way students interact with each other and the work in front of them is largely dictated by this it. And creating a positive class environment is invaluable for building trust and getting results.

When it comes to setting a positive classroom culture, a good place to start is with core values.

Which values, mindsets, and people skills do you want to encourage? If you can settle on three to four core values to consistently model and reinforce in your classroom, you’re likely to end up with the environment you want.

Below are four of the most popular core values along with ideas on how to make them part of your class culture.

Continue reading “Creating a Classroom Where Students are Happy and Focused” →

October 14-19 is Digital Citizenship week!

Although we should help students understand how to be good digital citizens throughout the year, Digital Citizenship Week is great opportunity to reinforce the important behaviors and actions that make up good digital citizens. 

But, what is a good digital citizen?

There are many definitions of a good digital citizen. Perhaps the most comprehensive definition is as follows:

A good digital citizen is a person with the skills and knowledge to effectively use digital technologies to participate in society, communicate with others, and create and consume digital content.

Below are some things to consider when educating your students on the important responsibilities digital citizenship.

Continue reading “Are You Ready For Digital Citizenship Week?” →