Case
Obscenity

Sixth period, the last period of the day, has just started when Kim* walks into your classroom and slams her books onto her desk.
Kim is a student who is usually moody, but in general has not caused many problems (or disturbances in your classroom, although
you have heard of her being disrespectful to other teachers). You can't help but think that first she comes late and then interrupts your
review of yesterday's material with the slamming of the books. You continue your lesson, but hear heavy sighs coming from Kim. A few moments later, you clearly hear an obscenity. What is next?

Posted on: 10/03/14 | Views: 1209
Solution #1
I would ask Kim to step outside the door into the hallway to speak with me for a minute. Although this is interrupting class even further, it will get the student out of the room and out of the spot light. She may also make a slight scene when exiting, but again, this would be less of a disruption than if she continues her current behavior interrupting the class. Once in the hallway, I would ask Kim to explain what was the matter and why she felt that interrupting my class was the best way to solve her problem. I would also tell Kim that slamming books and speaking obscenities are not allowed in my classroom at any time. If Kim could calm down enough to re-enter my classroom and behave responsibly after this short conversation, I would let her. If not, I would ask her if she needs to speak with an administrator or counselor about the problem that is bothering her. Either way, I would tell Kim that in the future, she should call me to the side before class begins to explain if something is bothering her to this extent so that we might handle it before the class is disrupted. I would also call her parent after class to express concern regarding the mental state Kim was in when she entered the classroom, check on how she was doing, and explain how this behavior cannot continue to disrupt my classroom and the learning environment of all students.

I like most of your solution though I will add that I would first try continuing my lecture but walk towards the student and stand near their desk. They may feel your presence and choose to stop in their own, if not then I would take the steps you did.

I agree with this solution. Although class time is being taken away, the issue is being dealt with head on. I feel that the behavior may be attention-seeking, and getting her out of the spotlight is a good tactic in getting her to be honest.

I agree, dealing with the problem is a good solution.

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Solution #2
I think it is important to consider that students do not generally act out for no reason. Perhaps try to get through the lesson and have her stay after class or ask her to step out of the room to talk to her. Remind Kim that as her teacher you are there for her and if she is having any problems at home or at school then you are there to help her. If something is really wrong at home or school then it may be best for her to meet with a counselor. As for the acting out and obscenities remind her that the behavior she was exhibiting is not tolerated in school and that the actions may have consequences if she continues them.
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Solution #3
Based on what my classroom rules are on obscenities I would give her the consequences for saying what she did in my class. But before giving her the consequence for her action I would warn her, but if she continued then I would reprimand her for her behavior.
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Solution #4
I would ask Kim if everything was okay, and if she needed to take a minute in the pod she could. After class I would pull her aside and speak to her about what happened.

I would use this solution in my classroom. I think it solves the issue at hand without taking away from the other students.

I'm not sure if I feel this solution would work. If she is upset, and perhaps seeking attention I don't know if asking her this would work. I agree that it is favorable to not take time away from class, but i'm not sure this would be enough to solve the issue.

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