Classroom norms can be described as the way in which the class treats each other, how students are to behave towards one another. They are designed to be adhered to throughout the year and become a seamless part of a student’s foundation for learning. Words like respect, honesty, compassion, and consideration come to mind when we think about the norms that we want to see inside the classroom. Just as there are norms with how to act at home and in public, there are norms for students in the classroom.
Judi Fenton from teachersnetwork.org, wrote the following in her article Setting Norms with Your Students, “Most teachers have class rules they have written themselves, or have elicited student input and have written in conjunction with their students. Some teachers have had luck with their class rules, many have not. I have found that setting norms with students is a more effective construct” (Fenton, n.d.).
She continues, and addresses norms and rules specifically: So, what’s the difference between rules and norms? Rules are structures that are imposed on the group. Norms are meant to serve the group. With norms the teacher asks students to consider how they wish to be treated by others and how they want their class to interact with one another. Norms are more fluid than rules; they can be altered by the group when the norms no longer serve the purpose intended. (Fenton, n.d.) She concludes her informative article with, “Setting norms with the class gives teachers the chance to create an inclusive classroom environment through which all student voices are heard and honored. And that’s good for students and teachers alike” (Fenton, n.d.).
The University of Vermont has a list of sample classroom norms, divided into grade levels, and observe that regardless of the grade levels, they are remarkably similar.
Grades Pre-K - 2 Use kind words. Learn as much as you can. Help each other. Take care of yourself, other people, and things. Be safe. Grades 3 & 4 Respect yourself, others, and property. Cooperate and help each other. Everyone belongs to our community. Have fun!
Grades 5 & 6 Treat others as you would like to be treated. Respect people for who they are. Be mindful of other people’s feelings, thoughts and beliefs. Be willing to try new things. Help each other learn.
Grades 7 & 8 Help at least one other person each day. Be willing to stand strong. Include others. Respect self, others, and property. Make informed decisions.