Overview
This lecture explains the creation and impact of Social Contracts in classrooms, highlighting how student ownership of behavior norms fosters community, respect, and effective learning.
Purpose and Benefits of Social Contracts
- Social Contracts empower students by involving them in setting classroom behavioral expectations.
- They promote collaboration, self-monitoring, and positive relationships among students and teachers.
- Student ownership increases accountability and a sense of community.
Creation of the Social Contract
- Social Contracts are based on responses to four key questions about treatment and violation handling.
- Students answer independently, then share and collectively list important behavioral expectations.
- Participation ensures all students' voices are heard rather than solely teacher input.
Implementation and Use in Classroom
- The finalized Social Contract is signed by students and teachers as a pledge.
- The contract is displayed prominently and referenced regularly during discussions and activities.
- Students use a sideways thumb gesture as a non-disruptive reminder to follow the contract.
Reinforcement and Reflection
- Students self-assess adherence using a three/two/one scale at the end of each day.
- Regular reflection connects contract principles to academic discussions (e.g., empathy during Little Rock Nine discussion).
- Classroom discussions and problem-solving use the contract to guide respectful, inclusive participation.
Impact on Classroom Environment
- The Social Contract streamlines classroom management and maximizes instructional time.
- Students develop empathy, responsibility, and respectful communication.
- Signing the contract reinforces daily commitment to the agreed values.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Social Contract — An agreement created by students and teachers setting expectations for behavior and interaction.
- Empathy — Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, highlighted as important in interactions.
- Three/two/one rating — A self-assessment system for adherence to the Social Contract (3 = perfect, 2 = minor issues, 1 = major problems).
Action Items / Next Steps
- Continue referencing and adhering to the Social Contract in class.
- Use the thumb gesture and three/two/one rating for self-monitoring.
- Reflect on class discussions through the lens of the Social Contract.