Ok, we can't 'tick' children all over to mark their behaviour as we can in maths and science books. There must be a rule somewhere to say we're not allowed to do that... I suppose that's reasonable.
But what I want to get across is what is happening when classwork is marked. They're being told that something's correct and they're doing well. That you're happy with their efforts in class and that you know they've understood what's been taught. Also, the children are being told what is needed to take them to the next level of achievement.
It's equally important that children (and the teacher) know when something is wrong. It could be through making a mistake, misunderstanding a concept, not listening well enough or not making sufficient effort in class. Marking work will make sure any misconceptions can be sorted out, either with more input or consolidation exercises.
Many people think work shouldn't be marked as incorrect. But children have to learn that something that's wrong can be altered. However, when I'm marking work, if it's obvious that a child hasn't understood and has most of the work wrong I don't cover the book with crosses. The work has to be re-done and put right - I may not have fully explained or the child may just be finding it difficult. Not understanding is one thing but lack of effort another - it's not acceptable and will probably result in a consequence.
What's all this got to do with children's behaviour in school? In short, children have to know when their behaviour is correct and acceptable - also when it's not acceptable, in other words, wrong. It has to be explained exactly what you expect from children. Don't assume they understand what 'being good' means. You have to reinforce your expectations regularly. So, as with maths and science, behaviour has to be 'marked'. Unlike other subjects behaviour 'marking' happens all the time you're in contact with the children. You mark both good behaviour and bad (wrong) behaviour.
It really isn't hard or onerous to learn to manage children's behaviour to get the highest standards. Once the skills are mastered your life becomes so much easier and enjoyable. But, you have to know what to do to enable high standards in school to be achieved. Don't fall into the trap of allowing standards to be set by the children, at a level far lower than that which is acceptable. It's vital that adults are in charge of putting limits and boundaries on children's behaviour. Behaviour Bible will enable you to become a confident classroom practitioner.
Author Resource:
Liz Marsden is a behaviour management specialist who deals every day with potentially extreme behaviour. She trains teachers, students and classroom assistants, increasing their skills in classroom management. Liz's highly recommended book, Behaviour Bible offers essential advice. Read about her every day experiences in mainstream classrooms and gain further advice and insight into Liz's work.
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