Brittany Nyhus

Classroom Management Plan

Nyhus 1

Table of Contents
Physical Classroom Organization
Classroom Operations
Student Records
New Students
Substitute Teachers
Displaying Student Work
Desk/Classroom Cleanliness

Disciplinary Policies and Professional Ethics

Relationships with Students
Classroom Economy
Class Rules
Class Store
Break Box
Classroom Disruptions
Extreme Crisis Plan
A Classroom Community
Young Adolescents
Cheating
Professionalism

Classroom Routines and Procedures

First Day
Morning Routine
Paper Trails
Attention Grabbers
Bathroom/Water Fountain Procedures
Done with work early activities
Praising Students/Motivating Students
Classroom Jobs

Differentiation Policy
Gifted Students
Club Ed
Challenged Learners

Parent Involvement
Conclusion & Mission Statement
Appendix

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Physical Classroom Organization

Welcome to Mrs. Nyhus fifth grade classroom! I have designed an area where students can take
control of their own learning and collaborate with each other to discover a world outside of their
classroom walls. Technology, inquiry and nature are all a large part of this classroom and these
key features can be seen throughout the map, found on page four.
When you walk into the classroom my desk is immediately available, allowing easy access for
students or parents who have questions before or after school. The filing cabinet will hold
information that the students need if they missed class, as well as scratch paper, and extra
practice worksheets for math. There is also storage right behind the teachers desk so I can easily
grab supplies or resources when working on lessons or with students at the small group
instruction table.
The students dont have any supplies at their desk. Notebooks, books, and extra crayons,
markers, glue, paper etc. will be stored in the student supplies cabinet. Laptops and iPads are also
stored in the student supplies cabinet for students to check out and use. Personal items such as
folders and notebooks the students are currently using are stored in cubbies at the front of the
room.
Students will sit at tables of four with a center basket of items they may need during direct
instruction. There are two whiteboards because I plan on having a mimio and two projectors
which will allow students to see my notes from wherever they are sitting. A mimio suctions cup
to your whiteboard, and is a combination of smartboard and whiteboard. This technology will be
held on the technology cart placed next to the whiteboard. The projectors will be mounted from
the ceiling.
Extra storage and counter space is on the left side of the room, and a sink is located right next to
the rabbits cage for easy access to hand washing after interaction with the class pet. The rabbit is
allowed to roam inside of that pen, and students will also be able to sit inside the pen during free
reading if it is their daily job. A reading corner is set up in the back left corner with beanbags, a
couch, and plenty of books to choose from.
The inquiry areas will change depending on the unit and students will use those areas to conduct
experiments, or work on group projects. They will display their findings on the bulletin board
that is next to the window on the back wall.
My favorite part of the classroom is the outdoor learning area. There is a door leading out to a
garden that is teeming with flowers, shrubs, and vegetables that the class can use in all content
areas. The garden will be integrated into daily classroom activities and have a large role in what
is going on in the inquiry areas, especially during the spring and fall.

Nyhus 3

Brittany
Nyhus 5th
Grade
Classroom

Nyhus 4

Classroom Operations
Student Records:
Students can be confident that their records will be kept safe and secure in my classroom. Grades
will be entered into the computers website at least three days after the assignment was turned in,
for daily assignments and tests, and two weeks for large projects.
For quick check in assignments and quizzes I will use Google
apps including Flubaroo. Students will be emailed a form and
continue to answer the questions asked. Flubaroo will allow me
to:
Compute the average assignment score.
Compute the average score per question, and flag lowscoring questions.
Show a grade distribution graph.
Figure 1 http://www.flubaroo.com/
Email each student their grade, and an answer key.
Send individualized feedback to each student.
Using technology such as this app will allow me to quickly tailor instruction based on
assessment.
I will also have a binder holding all of my students information, each student having their own
tabbed section. In order to maintain privacy this binder will always be locked in a file cabinet. A
portfolio of sorts the information and items will be useful to share with parents during
conferences and quickly access information about each student. The binder will contain:
Name, address, emergency contact
IEP or 504 plans
Dietary restrictions
Latest assessment scores
Exemplary work
New Students
When new students arrive in the classroom mid-year I want to make sure they feel welcomed and
prepared to learn. The first thing a new student will receive is the Welcome to 5 th Grade!
folder. This folder will have our daily schedule, helpful school tips (as submitted by the students)
and a sheet containing fun facts about each of their new classmates. A classroom buddy will be
assigned to the new student in order to make them feel welcome and to give them a person they
can ask questions to. In order to keep accurate records I will add the new students name to all
score sheets and student record forms at the bottom so they can be assessed immediately. As
Wong suggests this saves time rather than reprinting forms1.

Wong, H. K., & Wong, R. T. (1998). The first days of school: how to be an effective teacher ([2nd ed.).
Mountainview, CA: Harry K. Wong Publications.

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Substitute Teachers
I want each substitute to be absolutely prepared when they walk
into my classroom, especially if I am unexpectedly absent and
dont have time to lay out lessons. For those reasons I have
created a Sub Tub2. The Sub Tub will contain everything a
substitute teacher would ever need to spend a day in my
classroom. The sub tub will contain:
Substitute Teacher Binder
o This binder will have a class roster with photos of
Figure 2
http://www.ateacherstreasure.com/20
each student, emergency procedures, school
13/03/sub-tub.html
information (extension numbers, schedule)
classroom rules, classroom schedule, seating charts,
discipline forms, and note sheets for the substitute to inform me of what went on
in the classroom.
Lesson Binder
o This will have at least three lesson plans for science, social studies, math, reading,
and writing. All worksheets that are needed to complete the lessons will be stored
in the binder as well. Time fillers such as writing prompts, crosswords, and
riddles will be in the back of the binder.
Books
o Chicken Soup for the Soul: Classroom Edition will be included. This
book contains lesson plans, discussions, and short stories that require
no planning and can be used at any time.
o Mad Libs
o Poetry books
Miscellaneous Activities
o Educational DVDs will also find their way into the Sub Tub
Figure 3
depending on what were currently discussing in class.
http://www.amazo
o Fun games such as Are you Smarter
n.com/Chickenth
than a 5 Grader? I Spy, or card games
Soup-ClassroomDisplaying Student Artwork and Bulletin Boards

ElementaryEdition/dp/0757306
934

I want every student to feel like the classroom is a

place they feel safe, comfortable, and at home in. In order to
achieve those goals the majority of my bulletin boards will be
used to display student art and projects.

Figure 4 http://ows.edb.utexas.edu/site/anasofia-rodriguez/bulletin-board

As a class on the first day of school we will design what at least

two bulletin boards should look like. The students might choose
an inspiration board with quotes and positive messages, they
might choose to keep that space open for the first unit we will
work on, or a fun bulletin board filled with jokes. My hope is that

http://www.ateacherstreasure.com/2013/03/sub-tub.html

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this will help the students feel like the classroom is as much theirs as it is mine as the teacher.
One bulletin board will be designated specifically for what were currently working on. This will
be a place where questions can be displayed with post its or students can show their learning by
creating part of the bulletin board. The part of the plant bulletin board in Figure 4 shows how
students could share their knowledge of a certain topic on a bulletin board.
Additionally I want students to be reminded of
their goals. On a wall near the door I will have
students write what their goals are for 5th grade.
These can change with the unit we work on, or
be long term goals. I will use this to remind my
students that growth is something to always be
celebrated and that setting goals is an important
part of learning.
Desk/Classroom Cleanliness
I prefer a clean environment for learning and
feel like a disorganized classroom can lead to
me personally not teaching effectively. I will
expect students to respect the classroom by
Figure 5
keeping it clean. To accomplish this, before we
http://mrsrobinsonsclassroomblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/meaningfulfirst-week-activities.html
leave for lunch or recess all paper and trash must
be put in the recycling or trash bins, chairs must
be pushed in, and materials put away in their proper place. Ill have the drawers and cabinets
labeled so the students know where items go and put them back in the same spot every time. If
students are not cleaning up quickly I will make it a competition between myself and the class.
Ill give the students a time I think they can clean the classroom in, and the students will try and
beat that time. If they beat my time five times in a row the class will get time added to their
preferred activity time at the end of the week. No negative consequences (other than being late
for lunch/recess/specials) will be enforced.

Figure 6
http://thecornerstoneforteachers.com/2012/09
/the-clean-desk-diagram.html
3

Some students are disorganized because its how they work

best, therefore a messy desk doesnt automatically mean that
the student is unprepared to learn. Students will not be
required to clean their desk until they have an issue with
producing papers and materials quickly from their desk. One
warning will be given for a misplaced paper or material
within their desk and then they will be required to clean their
desk according to the poster in Figure 6. I will refer students
to a handout that looks similar to this chart and they will have
to clean their desk to these specifications3.

http://thecornerstoneforteachers.com/2012/09/the-clean-desk-diagram.html

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To clean up at the end of the day I will also tell the students that the magic number is (insert
number 1-10). The students will then have to each pick up that many pieces of paper or trash that
they find on the floor4.

Disciplinary Policies and Professional Ethics:

In order to maintain a classroom that is full of learning and a safe environment for all, discipline
policies must be put into place. Students will be allowed to have fun, and be kids, but they must
abide by the rules that are set for the class.
Relationships with Students
I believe that a positive and strong relationship with students is the best way to encourage
learning and increase intrinsic motivation. With upper elementary and middle school students a
respectful relationship between the student and teacher can be one of the most beneficial tools to
managing a classroom 5
To achieve this relationship we will spend the first week of 5th grade getting to know each other,
and setting a solid foundation for the rest of the year. We
will start the first day with a get to know you assignment.
As students come into the classroom they will be directed
to pick up the bingo card that is on their desk and start to
mingle with other students trying to get each square filled
with a signature of a classmate (the bingo card can be found
in the Appendix on page 22)6.
Throughout the rest of the week we will continue to fill out
the back to school packet in the appendix. This packet
will allow the students to take a stake in making rules, their
own behavior plans, and help to develop many of the
policies that we will use in our classroom. Throughout the
year
I will randomly ask the students to write their thoughts
Figure 7 http://teachertalkon a sticky note and put it on the side of my desk
addie.blogspot.ca/2012/07/creating-caringclassroom.html
so I can review them. Sometimes they will sign
their names, other times they wont. This will let me
gain insight on how the students are feeling about class and other information about
themselves as individuals.
Learning about the students and developing relationships will not end after that first
week of activities. I will always be available to have a private conference with the
students if they need to talk about something. A respectful community, and safe
environment will be built in my classroom and students will be aware that they can
bring to me any concerns or feelings they have without being judged.
4

Lori Kleve, 6th Grade Teacher, Hillside Elementary, West Des Moines CDS
5
Knowles, T., Brown, D. F., & Bird, L. B. (2000). What every middle school teacher should know. Portsmouth, NH:
Heinemann ;.
6
http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Back-to-School-Pre-Teen-Style-Perfect-for-Upper-Grades-289587

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Throughout the year I will hold mini-conferences with the students. These will consist of 5-10
minute conversations about what is working well in class, what we could do to help them reach a
higher level of learning, and every day things like what book theyre reading, or what theyre
looking forward to in the next few weeks.
Classroom Economy
The majority of the discipline procedures in place will have consequences related to our
classroom economy. This classroom economy will be a large part of our classroom and will not
only be used as a tool for managing behavior but also to teach skills that will benefit the students
later in life.

Figure 8
http://houseofgeekery.com/2014
/01/09/10-things-you-learnplaying-tabletop/

Our classroom economy is called Nyhus Bucks; $500 in paper

money will be given to students at the beginning of each quarter.
Students are personally responsible for keeping track of their own
money. Money can be earned, taken away, or spent throughout the
quarter. At the end of each quarter a class auction will be held.
More about how the money will be earned and used will be
discussed later in this section. At the end of each semester a class
auction will be held (see Appendix page 24 for list of
auction items).

In addition there will be a marble jar that will be used to reward positive behaviors
as a class. One jar will start off full and the second empty. When a student does a
kind act without being prompted, when the class is complimented by another
teacher for good hallway behavior, a marble is moved to the other jar. Bad
behavior causes the marbles to move back to the original jar. Once the second jar
is full the class will get a Friday movie! This is being done in addition to Nyhus
bucks because I want the class to feel like they can work together to achieve
something fun as well as make individual choices that affect the students as
individuals.

Figure 9
http://www.bestucanb
.ca/2152/

Class rules
I want the 5th graders to feel like they have a say in what goes on
in our classroom and that they are an integral part of our class
community. To achieve this, as a class we will come up with five
golden rules that we think are the most important to follow in a
classroom. In addition to coming up with class rules students will
also come up with the consequences for breaking a rule. This will
be tied to Nyhus Bucks. A list of negative behaviors will be
generated by the students and how many Nyhus bucks you will
lose if you are engaging in that activity will also be decided. For
example, if you are talking out of turn you might lose five bucks,
but if you are caught cheating you would lose one hundred bucks
(among other consequences).

Figure 10
http://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/s/s
chool_discipline.asp

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Many students in 5th grade have cell phones and these can cause a distraction during class.
Instead of requiring the students to put their phones in their locker where they risk being stolen, I
will have a drawer set aside in my desk for cell phones only. As soon as students come in they
will put their cell phone in the drawer and when the bell rings they are allowed to go get their
cell phone.
Class Store7
As a fifth grader I expect all of my students to be prepared for class. That means having pencils,
a red pen, textbooks, and an independent reading book at all times. If they do not have the
required items they will be directed to Nyhus Mart to rent the needed item. They will pay for
each item using Nyhus bucks and will be expected to return the item otherwise they will continue
to be charged. For a list of rental items and their prices please see page 25 in the appendix.
Break Box
At some point all of us need to take a break from what were doing, and whats going on in the
environment around us and take a break. There will be a box set up in
the back of the classroom that students can go and sit in for a period of
time to calm themselves. If the weather is nice they can also go and sit
in our outdoor learning area.
In the box there will be tactile materials that the students can play with,
pillows, stuffed animals, and a few books if they would like to read to
calm down. For example students can use an I Spy book to get lost in
something else for five minutes. They can mold playdo or squish one of
the toys in Figure 10. Sitting quietly is always an option.
Classroom Disruptions

Figure 11
http://hbslp.wordpress.c
om/2012/09/20/thefidget-toy-awakening/

If students are disrupting class they will be asked once to stop what they
are doing. If it continues the appropriate consequence will be handed out.
A marble might be moved from the marble jar, or Nyhus bucks may have to be paid. If the
students argue and want to ensue in a power struggle they will be given a choice, either visit a
buddy classroom for 15 minutes, or pay the fine in Nyhus bucks. Our buddy classroom will be
with a nearby classroom that is a different grade than 5 th. The principal will only be called if a
student refuses to choose between a buddy classroom or paying the fine in Nyhus bucks and
continues the negative behavior.
Classroom disruptions may include but are not limited to:
Talking when it is meant to be silent
Arguing with other students
Disrespectful behavior towards the teacher or classmates
7

Kenzie, Robert J., and Lisa Stanzione. Setting limits in the classroom: a complete guide to effective classroom
management with a school-wide discipline plan. 3rd ed. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2010. Print.

Nyhus 10

Inappropriate language or behaviors

Extreme Crisis Plan

As a professional I have an obligation to keep all students safe in my classroom and to create an
environment that is suitable for learning. If a student becomes so disruptive that they are a
danger to themselves and their classmates I will ask the students to exit the classroom quickly
and quietly. Since we have an outdoor garden area this is an option for keeping students
separated from any danger that may arise. Once everyone is safe then the principal will be called.
Due to the need for swift action in the event for an extreme crisis, as a class will practice these
drills 4 times a year, once each quarter. Students will be reminded that in the event of something
happens we should never panic, just follow directions.
A Classroom Community
There will be a strict no tolerance for bullying in my classroom. Students will be expected to
treat each other with respect throughout the entire class year. Once a month we will devote time
to building our classroom into a family like atmosphere. The ice breakers and get to know you
activities in the beginning of the year will help, but as a class we will dive further into what is
going on in their lives, including bullying. Below are topics that we might talk about during these
monthly meetings, as well as activities to do as a class.
Bullying:
Students will be asked to take a piece of clean white paper and
crumple it up. They can stomp on it, make it dirty, but not rip it, if they
choose as well. After they mar the paper, the students will then be
asked to smooth the paper out and try to restore it to its original state.
Theyll be asked to tell the paper Im sorry. I will point out that even
though we tried our hardest to fix this piece of paper, and we told it
were sorry it is still scarred, and affected by what we did to it8. After
this activity we will move into a discussion on the effects of bullying.
Figure 12 http://mediacacheNegotiation and Communication:
Students will learn how to resolve arguments through negotiation instead ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a7/
fb/08/a7fb088828c6d496
of back and forth arguing. Role plays, and information on what
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negotiating is, will give the students a skill that they can use later in life.
General Team Building9:
These team building activities will teach the students various things about their
classmates. The discussion that will follow the activities will allow for application to
important skills that again, can be used in real world situations.
Human Knot:
All the students will stand in a circle and put their right hands into the
middle and grab hands with someone else. They then place their left hands
8
9

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/186899453256446983/
http://www.deca.org/_docs/chapter-resources/DECA-teambuildinggames.pdf

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in and grasp a different persons hand. The students goal is to untangle

themselves. The focus of this activity is teamwork.
Replication:
This game needs 5 sets of blocks, or other structure materials. Set up a
structure out of your materials away from all of the groups. Each group
will have 1 looker, 1-2 runners, and 2 builders. The looker of each group
gets to see the original model. Each groups builders get a pile of the
objects in a space away from the other teams builders. The lookers look at
the original structure and will tell the runners the details they can
remember about the structure. Then, the runner goes to builders. When the
runner(s) get(s) to the builders, the builders can only ask the runner yes or
no questions. When the runner cant remember any more details or wants
to confirm a detail, he goes back to the point where he can meet the
looker. He can converse freely about the details. This goes on until all of
the groups feel they are done. Then, the class looks at each all the groups
structures as well as the original. Replication builds communication skills
and is a good teambuilding effort game as well.

Young Adolescents
5th grade students are quickly entering into the world of a young adolescent. I am prepared to
deal with the issues that may arise that are related my students growing up. Hormones and
increased interest in having a boyfriend or girlfriend may cause disruptions during class. In order
to minimize this affecting our learning on the first day of school the students and I will have a
serious talk about leaving personal issues in the hallway before we come into the classroom. I
will explain to the students that Im going to leave the things that are going on in my life in the
hallway as well. However, we all make mistakes and some things are going to affect us, if that is
the case I will ask the students to let me know if they are having a personal issue. If they need to
take five minutes in the break box that is fine, but as a classroom community is so important
respect for everyone is important no matter what is going on personally.
Some 5th graders will also be going through puberty and the girls may get their period for the
first time. I will have feminine hygiene products on hand in case they are needed. My hope is
that I will have a solid relationship with my students that they will feel comfortable and trust me
if they need help with such issue.
Young adolescents are growing at such a rapid rate that they need to move frequently because
sitting can be uncomfortable10. We will move and change what we are doing in the classroom
many times throughout the day in order to make it more comfortable for the students as well as
to increase engagement.

10

Knowles, T., Brown, D. F., & Bird, L. B. (2000). What every middle school teacher should know. Portsmouth, NH:
Heinemann ;.

Nyhus 12

Cheating
Ethics could be a potential topic for our monthly classroom community sessions, but that may
not be enough to discourage students from cheating. If a student cheats on any assignment, test,
or project they will score a zero on that item. Students will also be asked to fill out the cheating
form, found in the appendix, to be sent home to their parents.
If it seems like the parents did the students homework I will have a private conference with the
student and ask them to answer questions that were asked on the particular assignment. If the
student can successfully answer the questions no repercussions will be taken. If they cannot, I
will ask the student to redo the assignment using recess time. Nyhus bucks will also be taken
from the student if they are caught cheating, the amount to be determined by the students
themselves.
Professionalism
At all times I want to maintain a high level of professionalism. In the instance that teachers are
complaining or forewarning about students I will immediately excuse myself from the
conversation. I want to develop my own beliefs about the students in my classroom and in the
school and dont want to break a students trust by sharing information about them.
If there is an issue between other teachers I will not take sides or participate in any conversations
that involve bad mouthing a staff member. As Sue Jones suggests I will find a positive mentor
who can help me navigate teaching, and not allow me to get bogged down in complaining about
students, other teachers, or administration11.
In terms of dress I will dress to impress my students as Wong says, you do not get a second
chance to make a first impression. I will always make sure the clothes I wear are clean, and
appropriate for the classroom. While its easy to fall into the trap of wearing only trendy clothes,
I will leave those to the students and make sure I convey a message of authority and respect with
my clothing choices12.

Classroom Routines and Procedures

First Day:
I want students to be as comfortable as possible on the first day of school. In order to achieve
this, a Welcome Back to School night13 will take place before the first day. I will send a letter to

11

Jones, S. (Director) (2014, April 16). Classroom Management. Curriculum and Pedagogy. Lecture conducted from
Drake University , Des Moines.
12
Wong, H. K., & Wong, R. T. (1998). The first days of school: how to be an effective teacher ([2nd ed.).
Mountainview, CA: Harry K. Wong Publications.
13
Wong, H. K., & Wong, R. T. (1998). The first days of school: how to be an effective teacher ([2nd ed.).
Mountainview, CA: Harry K. Wong Publications.

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parents (page 26 in appendix14) introducing myself, our classroom and some of the things we
will be learning in the upcoming year, along with an invitation to the open house.
At the open house I will have a question box where students and parents can ask questions either
anonymously or if a personal response is requested they can provide
contact information. All questions will be answered via our class
newsletter. On the first day of school we will move into the first day of
school activities mentioned in the relationship building section on page
11.
Morning Routine

Figure 13
http://www.fortheloveofteachingma
th.com/2013/05/19/accessiblemathematics-instructional-shift-1/

Each morning students will be expected to put their personal items away
and come into the classroom in a timely fashion. The bell work for the
day will be on the board as well as directions for completing the
assignment or activity. Bell work may include an extension from a lesson
in the previous day, cleaning desks, independent reading, or participating
in a group conversation. Students will be expected to have their bell work
completed in fifteen minutes unless otherwise noted.

After bell work is completed we will go over the agenda for the day in the
reading area. Well discuss any big projects, field trips, or other items in the near future and any
concerns, or questions the students have. The following routine will be posted in the room for
students to follow.
Morning Routine!
1. Enter classroom and move your number magnet to A or B Lunch or Cold Lunch.
2. Hang up materials and make sure you are prepared for todays learning
3. Complete bell work by 8:45
4. When bell work is done, head to the library
area for Morning Meet Up
Paper Trails
Students in fifth grade will be turning in homework
three to five times a week, and in class assignments
almost every day. In order to organize how to hand
in homework and other papers, we will have three
homework bins, one for reading, math,
science/social studies. These will sit on top of the
students mailboxes15. There will also be a no
name? basket that will be located on top of the
mailboxes. It is the students responsibility to check
the no name? basket for their work as I will not
enter it into the gradebook until it has a name.

Figure 14
http://mrslaffinslaughings.blogspot.com/2013/08/fiv
e-for-friday-august-30-2013.html

14 14
15

http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/6e/3d/f6/6e3df680a73727c1c42449feb36a0f79.jpg
http://mrslaffinslaughings.blogspot.com/2013/08/five-for-friday-august-30-2013.html

Nyhus 14

Students can find their graded assignments and other forms or information they might need in
their mailboxes.
Class library books will also be available for check out. A clipboard will hang next to the class
library that will have a form (appendix page 27) and students will be responsible for writing
down which books they take. If this privilege is misused fines will be issued and the class will
have to pay Nyhus Bucks.
Attention Grabbers
In order to regain classroom control from group work or other activities, we will play a game
called beat the teacher16. When I want everyones attention I will say 5,4,3,2,1. Sometimes this
will be fast, or slow, quiet, or loud; I will expect all students to be quiet by the time I get to one.
If even one student is talking a marble will be taken out of the reward jar, but if all students are
quiet then a marble gets put into the reward jar.
If this technique doesnt motivate students to be quiet I will start taking time off of their recess
on Friday for the amount of time I spend trying to get their attention. I will ask once for all
students attention wait 15 seconds or so to see if the students are coming back together. If the
students arent paying attention I will hold up a stopwatch, until I have the all of the students
full attention. This time will accumulate and on Friday they will have to spend that accumulated
time cleaning, the classroom during recess.
Bathroom/Water Fountain Procedures

RESTROOM

Students will be trusted to go to the bathroom as they see fit, until that
privilege is abused. As a class we will discuss that there should only be
one person in the bathroom at a time, and that trips must not take longer
than necessary. If a student needs to use the restroom they will take the
rubber duck pass and place it on their desk so I know who is in the
bathroom.

If this privilege is misused the students will receive 5 bathroom passes at

the beginning of each week. If they need to use the restroom at a time
other than designated breaks they must give me a pass. If they need more
than these 5 passes a week Nyhus bucks will be owed.

Figure 15
http://uwcmc.org/ducky/

In order to cut down on water fountain time each student will be allowed to have a water bottle.
Students can only fill it up before or after recess and at designated breaks.
Done with Work Early Activities
Early finishers are something that will always be present in any classroom as no two students are
the same when it comes to speed of work. If students are done with work early they know that
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Nyhus 15

they can always read independently until more directions are given. In addition they can quietly
work on other homework or work that needs to be completed.
If students dont want to read or finish homework they can complete one of the below tasks.
$1.00 Word17
Students find a word and then add up the letters where a=1, b=2, etc until z=26.
When the sum of the word equals 100, than its a $1.00 word. Students will
receive five Nyhus Bucks and will increase their skills of addition and
vocabulary.
Book or Movie Reviews
Students will be able to write a book or a movie review and give their opinion to
the class. These will go in a binder and from time to time if the students earn a
movie party or we are looking for a new read aloud book we will consult the
reviews binder and the student who wrote their opinion will get to share why they
think we should or shouldnt read or watch.
Club Ed18
Club Ed is a learning incentive that will be explained further in the plan. Students
can use the time after they finish their work to answer Club Ed questions and
receive Nyhus Bucks.
Praising Students/Motivating Students
Students should be intrinsically motivated, as extrinsic rewards often stop working after a period
of time. I will have the highest expectations for all of my students, and I will communicate with
them frequently that I know they all can reach high levels of
success, and I know they will reach those high levels.
To increase intrinsic motivation one of my strategies will be to
praise students when I see they have done an exceptional job
mastering a concept or shown great behaviors recently. This may
be recognized in front of the whole class, or I may sneak a sticky
note onto their desk for the student to find later. Figure 14 shows
what one of these sticky notes may look like.
I will also motivate students by giving them a choice in what we
Figure 16

learn and how we show mastery of particular concepts. I recognize

that each student learns much differently than their peers and that they all have different
interests. Inquiry groups will be formed during many of our units and the students will dive into
a topic based on their interest, not on what I think is the most important thing to learn.
I also want to encourage all of my students to set goals and to see how far they grow throughout
a unit. Research shows that when students track their own progress and growth in ways that are
17
18

http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/top-5-ideas-early-finishers
http://www.mrcoley.com/clubed.htm

Nyhus 16

concrete and easily understood, they do better on high stakes testing, are more excited to learn
and take ownership of that learning19. The student data tracking binders will be used by each
student to see where they start at the beginning of the unit and where they end on the final
assessment. These will be primarily implemented in Math and ELA, but used for Social Studies
and Science as well. All will be based on the Common Core Standards.
Each binder will include20:
A checklist page of learning targets, that are written in kid language, based on 5 th Grade
Common Core Standards
A table-like page of the same learning targets as
above, in order for students to rate it/date it and
record their post-assessment scores
Pre- and post-assessment graphs to graph their
data
Levels of Understanding posters (levels 0 through
4)
Levels of Understanding rubrics
After each pretest students will fill in the graph as seen in
Figure 17, with their individual data on how they scored.
They will then look at their learning targets and develop
goals based on how to successfully learn the material we
will be covering in the unit. Students will be assured that
it is ok that their scores are not very high on the pre test,
growth is what were looking for!
Throughout the unit students will continue to rate their
level of understanding on a 1-4 scale, one meaning a lot
is left to learn and four, I can do everything on my own.
Students will fill out their information in a chart much
like the one in Figure 18.

Figure 17

Figure 18

At the end of each unit students will fill in their data on a

new chart so they can see their growth. Since the students
have physical charts colored in they can easily reference
and celebrate how much they have grown throughout the
unit. These charts will also be very helpful during parent
teacher conferences to show student progress.
Figure 19
Extrinsic motivation will also have a place in my
classroom. We have the marble jar to encourage positive
class behavior as a whole, and the students will be working collectively towards a movie party.
19

http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational-leadership/dec09/vol67/num04/When-Students-Track-TheirProgress.aspx
20
http://youngteacherlove.blogspot.com/2012/07/math-data-binders-and-freebie.html
Figures 17-19 can also be found at the above web address

Nyhus 17

Each student will also receive Nyhus Bucks every quarter students will receive $500 and they
will be responsible for physically keeping track of the money as well as keeping their behavior in
check. Fines will be issued for misbehavior, tardiness, or being unprepared. The students will
come up with a list of ways they can lose Nyhus Bucks as well as the fines for each digression.
Classroom Jobs21
Our classroom jobs will be tied to the Nyhus bucks that students will earn throughout the year.
Each student will receive their job on the first day of the month. They will be briefed on what
their duties are and what is expected of them. If they need more information they can visit the
student job binders. Each student will be paid in Nyhus bucks if they do their job to teacher
satisfaction. Payday will happen at the end of the month and each student will receive feedback
on what they did well and could improve on, as well as their paycheck. These jobs will rotate
monthly, with each student getting to have a job approximately 3 times.
Clerk
Pay $600
Hand out papers to students. Hand out materials such as art supplies.
Collect papers or homework from students when asked. Organize the class
supply shelves and keep them neat.
Messenger
Pay $550
Deliver written or spoken messages to people throughout the building. Answer the
class phone.
Librarian
Pay $550
Keep a record of books checked out of the class library. Remind students to
return the books if they are late. Keep the class library organized. Take
books to the school library as scheduled.
Substitute
Pay $400
Perform the job of any absent student; gather extra papers for absent students.

Technology Supervisor
Pay $550
Turn the lights and computers on or off at appropriate times. Assist with technology
tasks such as setting up projectors, preparing cameras, or using audio equipment.

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Nyhus 18

Horticulture Specialist
Pay $450
Water plants at regular times. Clean up fallen leaves or petals from plant pots. Dispose
of dead plants when necessary.
Store Clerk
Pay $500
Manage the school store. Keep a record of inventory.

Differentiation Policy
Gifted Students
I want all students to feel like their talents are embraced and that
their needs are met, that includes gifted students as well as
challenged learners. In order to allow gifted students to grow and
reach the highest potential possible I will implement several
techniques22.
Mentors will be given to each student who expresses a specific
interest in a career path or topic. If the student chooses to have a
mentor they will be required to make a plan of what they want to
accomplish and learn from their mentor. The student will be given
full responsibility for communicating with their mentor and
maintaining that contact. Time will be given during school to work
on the plan.
Independent projects will be allowed for students who are excelling at
various topics. I want the student to take an interest in something specific and much like
the mentorship provide a plan for their learning. Students will be required to meet with
me periodically during the time they work on their independent projects to gauge
progress. The project will be presented to a panel of school faculty, and/or business
leaders.
Different types of questions will be asked to gifted students. Students will be required to
think about the topics we are learning differently. These questions may ask the student to
draw on prior knowledge, or compare and contrast more frequently. Maybe they will
have to apply the information to a scenario, however; these questions will always be
higher order thinking.

22

Tomlinson, C. A. (2001). How to differentiate instruction in mixed-ability classrooms (2nd ed.). Alexandria, Va.:
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

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Contracts will also be used, not just by gifted students but by everyone, I will expect a
gifted students contract to reflect the level they are currently at academically however.
I dont want the gifted students to be lost in the shuffle, or required to teach the rest of their
classmates. I want their opinion on how to advance their learning, and I want them to embrace
the talents that they have. Each student will be looked at individually before I suggest one of the
above options. I will also remember that these are only a sampling of the options that are in place
to help gifted students advance even further.
Club Ed
Club Ed will be a motivator as well as a way to differentiate instruction for all students. Club Ed
allows students to research questions and help Mrs. Nyhus learn new information based on what
the students come up with23. Every two weeks I will post a new set of Club Ed questions. Each
question will be worth a specific amount of Nyhus bucks, the harder the questions the more
bucks the students get when they solve the answer. Students can use whatever form of research
they are most comfortable with, personal interviews, books, internet, friends etc. Students can
answer the questions as many times as they want, but Nyhus bucks are only received for the first
answer. This will allow students who have interests in different topics the ability to shine when a
question in their knowledge base is asked.
Challenged Learners
Meeting the needs of challenged learners will be just as important as meeting those of gifted
students. In order to do this I will be aware of what each student needs in order to succeed. If a
student is distracted by others quietly working around them they will be able to sit under my
desk, or in our break box to complete some of their work. Some students might need extra time
on tests, or a different set of directions. I will also always have a variety of methods for
information delivery. If we are doing a powerpoint and taking notes, some students may need an
outline, while others are fine deciding on their own what to write down. Some students may need
auditory, and visual information so Ill always have handouts on hand for those students, or
something recorded for them to listen. If a student does have an IEP or 504 plan I will make sure
that I openly communicate with parents and other teachers on the students needs and what Im
doing to meet those needs. Students will know that if they feel like they need an accommodation
for any reason they can discuss those thoughts with me.

Parent Involvement
It is very important to always have constant communication with parents as you are spending a
large amount of time with their children. The Welcome Back night will help me to start building
relationships with parents and will open the lines of communication. During that night I will ask
them to fill out a form that has their contact information, day and night time phones, email and a
preferred method of communication/time that is best to contact them. In addition to the Welcome
Back night we will have conferences in the beginning of the school year in which the behavior
plans and policies will be explained. Since I want the students to help me create many of the
23

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Nyhus 20

rules I will let the parents know that they will be announced on the class blog within the first few
days of class.
I will communicate with parents two ways. One, we will have a class blog where the parents can
find our schedule and read what their students are working on currently. Students will update the
blog with their own posts and parents will see their childrens learning through their written
work. We will also have a quarterly newsletter in which I will explain what is coming up in the
future and any changes that are going on in the classroom.
Parents may also be invited into our classroom when we need someone who is an expert on the
topic we are currently learning about. I will create a database of the parents, the topics they feel
they know a lot about and keep it handy in case we need someone to enrich our unit.
Conferences will be a time that I will get to show parents how much their child has grown. I will
keep samples of work from throughout the year and the students will have their data binders to
show their parents. I also plan on taking lots of pictures of students involved in classroom
activities and work in order to show the parents exactly what happens in Mrs. Nyhus 5 th grade.

Conclusion
Being a teacher is a huge commitment. You are responsible for shaping the minds of the future
generations. You are the reason that a student may grow up to solve world hunger, or a cure for
cancer. This is a commitment that I do not take lightly and will always work towards bettering
myself. This management plan will allow me to have a solid set of routines, procedures,
discipline tactics, and strategies in place in order to run the type of classroom that students can
feel moved to do amazing things.

Mrs. Nyhus Mission Statement

I am committed to being a lifelong learner and to seeking new
techniques, strategies and information to better myself as a teacher
All students deserve to reach their highest potential and have someone
believe in them, that someone is me
My classroom will be a place where students will work hard, learn a
tremendous amount and feel confident that they can do anything they
put their mind too

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Appendix
The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher
explains. The superior teacher demonstrates.
The great teacher inspires. ~William Arthur
Ward

Nyhus 22

Find Someone Who...

Went
to the
movies

Has
gone
skating

Likes
to play
video
games

Shares a
room with

Has an
annoying
sibling

Wishes
they
could
drive

Wishes
they
were
taller

Wants
to be
in a
band

Has a
friend
in this
class

Went
to a
concert

Can
cook

Wants
to dye
their
hair

Likes
butter on
their
popcorn

Has gone
to a
sleepover

Needs
a hair
cut

someone

Likes
cool
clothes

Nyhus 23

Class Auction Items24

Tangible
Small toys
Sports balls
Pencils
Erasers
Fruit
CDs/DVDs
Electronic video games
iTunes gift certificate
Coupons or gift certificates to local business
Books
Movie tickets
Intangible
Free homework coupon
Lunch with teacher and two friends
Lunch with the principal or another teacher
Pick the next read aloud book
Pick the Interest Centers topic
Extra recess or computer time
Swap desks with the teacher for a day/week
Sit with a friend for a week/month

IDEAS FOR GATHERING MORE PRIZES

Get the community involved by asking local businesses or vendors to donate products.
Request autographs from local celebrities, such as the principal, a coach, the mayor, or
business leaders. You can have your students write letters to ask for them.
Actively involve parents in finding or contributing auction items.
Involve your colleagues (e.g. offer a lunch with the principal or another teacher).

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http://myclassroomeconomy.org/rewards.html?menuItems=howItWorks,

Nyhus 24

Class Rental Store Items25

*All prices are in Nyhus Bucks
Scissors
Binder Pouch
4 Pack Expo Markers
2 Pocket Crayola Folder
1.5" Crayola Binder
Designer Index Cards
Customizable Notebook Set
Markers (Thick)
Markers (Thin)
Colored Pencils
Twistable Colored Pencils
Pop-Up Tape
Eraser (pencil-top)
Eraser (pink, medium)
Crayons
Pencil
Highlighter
Pen
Earphones
Ear buds
Glue Stick
Glue Bottle
Bookmark
Compostition Noteboooks
Spiral Notebooks
3-in-1 Pen
Pencil Box
25

$10.00
$5.00
$15.00
$15.00
$25.00
$7.00
$12.00
$15.00
$15.00
$10.00
$20.00
$8.00
$2.00
$7.00
$8.00
$3.00
$6.00
$6.00
$30.00
$30.00
$5.00
$5.00
$1.00
$15.00
$12.00
$10.00
$16.00

http://mrsreeve501.weebly.com/uploads/5/8/2/3/5823113/class_store_price_list_sheet1.pdf

Nyhus 25

Nyhus 26

Student

Book Title

Date
Out

Date
In

Nyhus 27

Nyhus 28