The Power of Positivity

Something that I have always felt strongly about is a high level of positivity in a class. I try and maintain a good balance in formative assessment by offering each student a good comment and an area of focus. I also do this verbally with individuals and to the class as a whole. It is extremely valuable if you are specific about the thing you are commenting on.

I have often wondered about the people that hated school; how none of their teachers liked them and I suppose that if you spent your whole educational life being drawn to the negative, then you might come to that conclusion.

I know of this scheme that is in place called PB4L (positive behaviour for learning) in some schools. The idea of this is to treat the students individually and identify positive behaviour no matter how small. If a learner who never brings in a pencil comes in equipt, it's good to acknowledge that. If they come in on time for once, sincerely thank them and ask them to keep it up.

When addressing negative behaviour I think it is essential to really clarify why you need to take the action you are taking and encourage the student to see your point of view or reasoning.

I feel that these things can maintain a good rapport, meaning that the student is less likely to dismiss their behaviour and pin it on your poor relationship. Instead, when you say ' I know you and I know you're better than this, it really means something.

#positivity #Learningfocusedculture #Professionalrelationships