Classroom Management Strategies Flashcards

Which of the following BEST illustrates the concept of 'momentum' in Kounin's classroom management model?

Answer: Maintaining a steady instructional pace without unnecessary interruptions or slowdowns

Kounin's momentum refers to keeping lessons moving at an appropriate pace without 'jerkiness' or unnecessary slowdowns that create windows for misbehavior.

A teacher wants to address chronic off-task behavior for one student without disrupting whole-class instruction. The MOST appropriate tool is:

Answer: A behavior intervention plan (BIP) developed collaboratively with the student and support staff

A BIP provides individualized, evidence-based strategies tailored to the function of a student's behavior, addressing it systematically without whole-class disruption.

What is the primary risk of overusing extrinsic rewards (such as stickers or prizes) for behavior management?

Answer: Intrinsic motivation may decrease as students begin to expect rewards for expected behaviors

Research shows that over-reliance on extrinsic rewards can undermine intrinsic motivation, reducing students' internal drive to behave well or learn.

A teacher allows students to select where they sit during independent work, provided they remain on task. This practice reflects which management philosophy?

Answer: Structured autonomy — granting choice within clear behavioral boundaries

Structured autonomy gives students meaningful choice while maintaining clear, non-negotiable behavioral expectations, building ownership and engagement.

Which of the following is an example of a 'group contingency' in classroom management?

Answer: The entire class earns free time when the group meets a collective behavior goal

Group contingencies link rewards to the collective performance of the class, encouraging peer support for positive behavior.

A teacher is setting up the physical classroom environment to support management. Which layout consideration is MOST important?

Answer: Ensuring clear sightlines to all students and unobstructed pathways for the teacher to circulate

Clear sightlines and circulation pathways allow the teacher to monitor all students, use proximity control, and respond quickly to behavioral issues.

When a student displays attention-seeking misbehavior, the most effective long-term strategy is to:

Answer: Provide plentiful positive attention for appropriate behavior while minimizing attention given to the misbehavior

Fulfilling the student's need for attention through positive interactions reduces the function of attention-seeking misbehavior more effectively than punitive responses.