At the beginning of every school year, in all the music classrooms around the world, there is always an air of excitement from both the teachers and students.
Unfortunately, that excitement does not always last, and teachers start to feel exhausted and at their wits end because their music students are not following any simple instructions.
But it doesn’t have to be that way!
There is an easier way to avoid these issues, and it’s a simple exercise of establishing clear expectations in your music classrooms with simple and easy to follow rules – no matter how old the students are!
Having clear and well-defined rules and procedures in your music classroom isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about laying the groundwork for a positive learning environment. Having well established guidelines will give your music classrooms a clear structure and help create an environment where everyone feels safe and supported.
By sticking to a routine, both you and your music students can make the most of your time together, focusing on the fun stuff—making music—instead of getting bogged down in spending time dealing with behaviour issues.
Plus, having a set of simple procedures means smoother transitions between activities, fewer disruptions, and more time for doing what everyone loves best – making music. Consistency is key here—it gives your students a sense of what to expect and helps keep everyone on track.
But it’s not just about keeping things in order. Clear music class rules also mean better control over your classroom, keeping everyone safe and happy. They’re the building blocks for an awesome music education experience that both you and your students will love.
So, get ready to explore some simple yet super effective strategies for making your music classrooms a place where creativity thrives and musical talents soar. Let’s jump in and make some magic happen together!
What is the Difference Between Rules and Expectations?
In simple terms “Classroom rules are like the specific things we need to do or not do, while expectations are the overall ways we should behave and act in class.”
Classroom Rules
- Classroom rules are specific guidelines or directives that outline the behavior or actions that are expected from students within the music classroom setting.
- These music classroom rules are typically clear, concise, and enforceable, providing a framework for maintaining order, safety, and respect in the learning environment.
- Examples of classroom rules may include: “Raise your hand before speaking,” “Respect your classmates and their belongings,” or “Follow directions from the teacher.”
Expectations
Expectations, on the other hand, are broader principles or standards that set the tone for behavior and attitudes within the music classroom.
While rules focus on specific behaviors, expectations encompass the overall attitudes, values, and norms that are encouraged or desired within the learning environment.
- Expectations often reflect the teacher’s beliefs about how students should interact, engage with the material, and contribute to the classroom community.
- Examples of classroom expectations may include: “Be responsible for your own learning,” “Participate actively and positively in class discussions,” or “Strive for excellence in all your endeavors.”
The 10 Benefits of Having Rules in Your Music Classrooms
Using rules in your music classrooms benefits both you the teachers and your students by promoting efficient time management, smooth transitions, consistency, and predictability, thus creating a structured and stable learning environment. Additionally, having a clear set of rules helps to foster student accountability, safety, independence, and a positive classroom culture, ultimately enhancing the overall teaching and learning experience for everyone involved.
- Time Management: Maximizing instructional time and efficiency in the classroom.
- Smooth Transitions: Ensuring seamless transitions between activities for a productive learning environment.
- Consistency and Predictability: Providing students with a sense of structure and stability.
- Classroom Management: Establishing solid rules and using them as part of your classroom management strategies will help to foster a positive atmosphere for learning.
- Equipment and Instrument Care: Promoting responsibility and preserving classroom resources.
- Maximizing Instructional Time: Minimizing disruptions and focusing on meaningful learning experiences.
- Student Accountability: Encouraging students to take ownership of their actions and behavior.
- Safety: Prioritizing the well-being of students and maintaining a safe learning environment.
- Building Independence: Cultivating independence and self-regulation among students.
- Positive Classroom Culture: Nurturing a supportive and inclusive community where students feel valued and respected.
Why You Should Establish Expectations and Routines in Your Music Classrooms
Implementing clear expectations and routines in your music classrooms is essential for creating a conducive learning environment where your music students can thrive. By setting the tone from the beginning of the school year, you can foster a sense of accountability, respect, and responsibility among your music students. Additionally, establishing routines helps students feel more confident and empowered, leading to increased engagement and participation in music lessons.
6 Strategies for Implementing Music Class Rules and Routines in Your Music Classrooms
- Establish Clear Expectations: Communicate your music classroom rules and expectations to students in a straightforward and accessible manner in the very beginning of the school year
- Model Desired Behavior: Lead by example and demonstrate the behaviors and attitudes you expect from your students, from the start
- Consistency is Key: Enforce rules consistently and fairly, addressing any deviations promptly and constructively.
- Reinforce Positive Behavior: Recognize and reward students who demonstrate adherence to classroom rules and routines. You can do this by using whatever reward system your school uses.
- Regular Review and Reflection: Take time to revisit and reflect on your music classroom rules and routines, soliciting feedback from students and adjusting as needed to ensure effectiveness.
- Use Games: using games in the classroom provides opportunities to use and demonstrate the music classroom rules that you want to use. If you are looking for some FREE music classroom games, check out this blog post – 31 Fun Music Classroom Games for Building a Positive Climate for Learning
Music Posters for the Classroom
An easy way to help you maintain consistency in your music classrooms is to have your music class rules displayed. Make sure that your display is positioned in your music classrooms in a prominent place that is also easy to access and reference during your lessons. This way you can quickly remind students who may be off track by pointing to the music poster and gently reminding your music students of the expectations.
Below are 5 simple music class rules that you can use to establish clear expectations with your music students.
M- In music class I will Make Good Decisions
U – In music class I will Use Kind Words
S – In music class I will only Speak, Sing or play when asked
I – In music class I will Involve myself in all activities
C – In music class I will Care for the equipment and room
If you like these 5 simple music class rules, and would like a set for your own music classrooms, you can buy them from my TPT store by clicking the links below. Each set of of the music classroom rules pdf is in printer friendly black and white so that you can print onto colored paper to brighten up your music classrooms and match the colors that you want to use in your music classroom displays.
Music Class Rules – Manuscript Paper Background
Music Class Rules – Chevron Paper Background
Music Class Rules – Swirls Paper Background
Music Class Rules – Paisley Paper Background
Music Class Rules – Dotty Paper Background
Music Class Rules – Stars Paper Background
As you can see, setting clear music classroom expectations is a must for the start of the school year. By setting the stage with structured routines and guidelines, both you and your music students can enjoy a positive and productive learning environment.
From maximizing instructional time to fostering accountability and safety, this simple yet powerful strategy paves the way for a successful and enjoyable music education experience.
If you’re interested in using this set of simple music class rules, use the links above that will take you to my TPT store.
The YouTube video below is from the Get Ready With Me Back to School 2024 series that was live on Facebook in January 2024. In the video you will see other ideas, tips and strategies to start the school year – enjoy!
Until next time
Happy Teaching
Julia from Jooya