CHAMPS is a widely recognized approach that helps establish consistent classroom behavior and engagement expectations. Here's a general outline of how you could approach the implementation of CHAMPS in your classroom:
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- Understand CHAMPS: Before you start implementing CHAMPS, ensure you and your colleagues understand the fundamental principles and components of the approach. This might involve watching and discussing the provided videos in your PLCs (Professional Learning Communities, I also have book resources in my office).
- Set Clear Expectations: CHAMPS stands for Conversation, Help, Activity, Movement, Participation, and Success. For each category, define clear expectations that align with your classroom activities. For example, what level of conversation is appropriate during group work? When and how can students ask for help?
- Develop Activity-Specific Expectations: For each activity or routine in your classroom, determine the specific behavior expectations that fall under each CHAMPS category. This ensures that students understand what's expected of them in various contexts. For example, the expectations for behavior during independent reading time differ from those during a group discussion.
- Communicate Expectations: Make sure your students are aware of the CHAMPS expectations. You can create visual aids or posters outlining each CHAMPS category's expectations. Discuss these expectations with your students and provide examples to ensure clarity.
- Model Behavior: Model the expected behaviors for your students. Show them what it looks like to follow the CHAMPS guidelines. You can even role-play different scenarios to demonstrate how students should behave in various situations.
- Practice and Reinforce: Start by practicing CHAMPS expectations during low-stakes activities. Gradually incorporate the expectations into more complex and interactive tasks. Provide immediate feedback and reinforcement when students demonstrate the desired behaviors.
- Consistency is Key: Ensure you consistently enforce the CHAMPS expectations across all classroom activities. Consistency helps students internalize expectations and reduces confusion.
- Individualization: While CHAMPS provides a general framework, remember that every classroom is unique. You might need to adjust the expectations to suit the dynamics of your students and the subject matter.
- Positive Reinforcement: Implement a positive reinforcement system to acknowledge students who consistently meet or exceed CHAMPS expectations. This could involve praise, rewards, or a point system.
- Regular Reflection and Adjustment: Periodically reflect on how well CHAMPS is working in your classroom. Are students responding positively? Do you need to make any adjustments to the expectations? Regularly discuss these aspects with your PLC and make necessary changes.
- Collaboration with Colleagues: Since CHAMPS is being implemented schoolwide, collaborate with your colleagues. Share strategies, successes, and challenges. You can learn from each other's experiences.
CHAMPS Overview
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1308300239381141