Establishing norms is a key element for success in any learning space. By taking the time to come to agreement on the expectations we have for each other, we nurture community while taking ownership for our individual behaviors.
Directions
Reflect on the norms you developed as a group last year and adjust your norms as needed. You may want to brainstorm a list of new potential norms.
Review each proposed norm. Using Fist to 5, vote on how critical the norm is:
0 fingers (fist) - “Norm is not necessary.”
3 fingers - “It's OK; the wording may need to be changed.”
5 fingers - “This meets our needs.”
Review norms that received a low rating and offer revisions or removal.
Consider and share additional norms to include.
Reflect/Put Into Practice
What can we do to ensure that our community stays mindful of our norms throughout the year?
What are some activities that we could engage in this year to build and maintain our community?
What strategies worked for setting norms with students last school year?
How will you establish norms with students in your classroom this year?
Teacher Tip Tricider can be used to support digital voting over norms in the classroom.
Cooperative Learning Strategy Fist to 5 can be used as a reflective tool, formative check, or for taking a quick vote.