Clifton Said:

Tips for High School Special Educations Math Teachers?

We Answered:

The most important thing for ANY teacher to do is to establish, and teach, the procedures for being in the class. This means that you need to clearly communicate, and give your students the opportunity to practice, the behaviors that are required. It is everything from where backpacks need to be stashed, to how homework is to be turned in, to what they need to do if they need a bathroom pass, to how they are supposed to sit in their chairs. It doesn't matter if they have a behavior plan or not - the classroom rules need to be followed, and there are rewards for following the rules, and consequences for failing to follow the rules. I have been teaching special education students at all age levels, from infants through adults, for more than 30 years, and I know from experience that the teacher needs to be clear and consistent on behavioral expectations; after that, the lessons are far easier.

You will not be able to effectively teach content (subject matter) until everyone knows the process (how we learn in this class.) So choose the essential rules, such as: Everyone sits in his or her seat, facing forward, hands and feet within their own personal zone. If you have a question or comment, you must raise your hand (and the teacher must be vigilant about not responding to students who speak out without raising their hands.) Speech and behavior need to be respectful, both to the teacher and to peers. Etc.

I highly recommend the book "Conscious Classroom Management" by Rick Smith. This is a great resource for teachers - it gives very specific information on all the questions you have asked.