Classroom Practices
Description
5 Evidence-Based Practices:
Maximizing Structure Expectations, Rules and Routines Active Engagement and Opportunities to Respond Encouraging Appropriate Behavior Responding to Challenging Behavior
Classroom Practices are a set of evidence-based instructional and behavioral strategies that teachers use to create effective, engaging, and inclusive learning environments. These practices encompass routines, instructional delivery, classroom organization, and proactive behavior management techniques that support all students in achieving academic and social success.
High-quality Classroom Practices are foundational to student learning and school-wide improvement. They promote consistency, equity, and positive student outcomes by reducing disruptive behavior, increasing time on task, and supporting differentiated instruction. When implemented with fidelity, these practices contribute to a safe, predictable, and responsive learning environment where all students can thrive.
Why is it important:
At PaTTAN, we recognize that effective classroom practices are essential to the success of broader school-wide frameworks, including Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). We work with educators to strengthen these core practices, ensuring that every classroom is a place where students are engaged, supported, and ready to learn.
Critical Features:
- Clear and consistent classroom routines and procedures
- Active supervision and positive teacher-student interactions
- Explicit instruction and opportunities for student engagement
- Consistent use of behavior-specific praise and feedback
- Culturally responsive practices that promote equity and inclusion
- Data-based decision making to adjust instruction and supports
Implementation Tips:
- Establish and explicitly teach classroom expectations and routines early and revisit them regularly.
- Use a variety of engagement strategies, such as opportunities to respond, cooperative learning, and formative assessment.
- Build positive relationships by providing frequent, specific praise and maintaining a ratio of positive to corrective interactions.
- Monitor student behavior and academic performance using simple tools to guide instructional and behavioral adjustments.
- Collaborate with colleagues to reflect on practices, share strategies, and ensure consistency across classrooms.
- Seek professional development and coaching to strengthen implementation and adapt practices to meet the needs of diverse learners.
Additional Resources