For many students (and teachers), the idea of classroom rules feels oppressive, stifling and sometimes just downright unfair. It’s difficult to balance the need for order and structure with the desire to build a collaborative, fun environment for learning. But proper classroom management techniques include developing rules that guide student learning and set expectations around classroom behaviour. Promoting consistent and value-based rules can help build a positive learning environment where all students have the opportunity to explore and succeed. In this post, you’ll find:

• A list of 37 classroom rules to get you started on making your own (plus a downloadable list!)

Classroom rules

Classroom rules look different for every teacher. Some use only a few, while others prefer to use more. Here are 37 rules to get you started on building your own:

1. Ask questions
2. Respect and listen to your classmates
3. Respect and listen to the teacher
4. Raise your hand to speak
5. Be prepared for class
6. Be quiet when the teacher is talking
7. Be quiet when classmates are talking
8. Share new ideas
9. Keep your hands to yourself
10. Respect others’ property
11. Keep your workspace tidy
12. Be kind
13. Always do your best
14. Walk, don’t run, in the hallways
15. Be a good friend
16. Be on time
17. Share with others
18. Use equipment properly
19. Help keep the classroom tidy
20. Listen to all the teachers
21. Obey all school rules
22. Finish your homework on time
23. Be respectful of classmates who are working
24. Have a good attitude
25. Use positive language
26. Follow the dress code
27. Line up neatly and quietly
28. Stay in your seat
29. Listen with your ears and your eyes
30. Contribute to discussions
31. Be respectful of others’ ideas
32. Follow the teacher’s directions the first time they are given
33. Cooperate with your classmates
34. Be creative
35. Be honest
36. Use technology appropriately
37. Be proud of your work

Want to keep these rules close by? We’ve put together a downloadable PDF with all these rules that you can use in your classroom today!

Post Credit: Maria Kampen