Case
Combative Behavior

Myles has a learning disability. When Myles has a difficult time completing a task he shuts down and does nothing. When he is asked to keep working he becomes combative and starts to exhibit inappropriate behavior. What would work to calm Myles and keep him on task with his assignment?

Posted on: 02/22/15 | Views: 925
Solution #1
Try talking with Myles to determine his triggers. Is it a certain subject matter that frustrates him the most? If you can narrow down where he is having difficulty you can better determine a solution. You may have to go back and teach him a concept that you did not realize he was not grasping.

This is a good suggestion, I would use it in my classroom.

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Solution #2
If you know that the problem is him not understanding the material, I would suggest implementing a few RTI II strategies if possible. Try working with him in a small group to review simpler forms of what you are currently learning, as well as the possibility of a peer tutor to help Myles with his school work.
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Solution #3
I have seen classroom teachers using a "Green, Yellow, Red" chart in the classroom to allow students to show the teacher if they are understanding the material (Green), need help with the material (Yellow), or do not understand at all (Red). Each student gets their own chart to have at their desk while they work on their assignment. Implementing one of these strategies in the classroom may allow Myles to show the teacher that he is struggling before he becomes stressed and shuts down. This will allow the teacher to have a visual of when Myles is struggling, without needing Myles to vocalize his issue. Solving the problem before it escalates into a negative situation will help keep Myles on task, and the classroom as safe as possible for all students.

Keeping Myles calm can start with the instruction. If Myles has a clear understanding of the assignment and the material, he is less likely to become frustrated. The teacher can closely monitor and ask if he has any questions. Also, Myles can work in a group or pair. If he has another student actively working with him, he may not get frustrated and give up.

This worked well for me in the kindergarten class I was interning in last term. I had one student that would become frustrated easily and then crumple up his paper or throw it on the floor. Closely monitoring the students and making sure to give many academic compliments had a very positive effect. Creating a non-verbal signal tht can be used when needing help is also a great idea.

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Solution #4
I think that it would be a good idea to set Myles up with a reward system. You have to find something that he really wants in order to make it worth his while. When he becomes frustrated, have him stop and take a break before things escalate. try to find different ways to present the material to Myles so that he is better able to understand it.
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Solution #5
I would give an incentive. I would also give scheduled breaks. 30 minutes of work equals a 15 minute break. He obviously needs a break and keeping a schedule makes it beneficial for both teacher and student.

This is a good idea but I think a 15 minute break is too long.

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