Clear Expectations
I deliver my expectations of my students and the expectations of the class on day 1 of the class. For those who are absent on day 1, I redeliver those expectations at the beginning of day 2. I let the studnets know exactly what is expected of them, my objectives of the overall class as well as my daily objectives.
I state my expectation through a daily agenda, unit objectives, and then for that days lecture/activities. That way students have multiple ways to understand what the expectations are for my courses.
I have found it very helpful to communicate my expectations in writing; students have that in front of them when I go over them and they can refer to the info later as needed. Another technique that works well is an activity: I ask students to get in small groups and first list their expectations regarding the teacher, and second, of themselves as students. When we then list them on the board and briefly discuss everyone's expectations we develop a rapport. Often the baseline expectation is respect for one another.
Nikkia,
I agree that this is the best way to go. I too deliver my expectations on day 1 and then a repeat on day 2. Sometimes there are times I find myself further explaining items later into the class as I notice that someone didn't understand some part of these expectations. I have considered writing up these expectations and passing them out. I am just not sure that the written word would be helpful.
