Rules tell students what not to do. Procedures tell them exactly how to do the everyday things that fill a class period: entering the room, turning in work, asking for help, leaving at the bell. When procedures are clear and practiced, most behavior problems never start. This classroom procedures list gives you 30 procedures to choose from, how to teach them and a quick checklist for the first week.
In this guide10 sections
Rules vs. procedures
| Rules | Procedures | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Set expectations for behavior | Explain how routine tasks are done |
| Example | “Respect others’ learning time.” | “Raise your hand and wait to be called on.” |
| Consequence | Usually linked to consequences | Re-teach and practice when not followed |
For writing rules, see our guide to classroom rules for students.
Start-of-class procedures
- Entering the room
- Where to put bags, coats and phones (see our cell phone policy)
- Starting the warm-up (see bell ringer ideas)
- Taking attendance and tardies
- Getting materials and devices
During-class procedures
- Getting the class’s attention (attention signal)
- Asking a question
- Asking for help during independent work
- Moving into groups (see group work roles)
- Working with a partner
- Sharpening pencils or getting supplies
- Using the bathroom pass
- Getting a drink of water
- Using devices responsibly
- What to do when finished early
- Handling classroom visitors
Work and paper procedures
- Heading papers
- Turning in work (paper and digital)
- Returning graded work
- Late work
- Getting work after an absence
- Requesting a regrade or extra help
End-of-class procedures
- Completing the exit ticket (see exit ticket ideas)
- Cleaning up and returning materials
- Recording homework
- Dismissal (the teacher dismisses, not the bell)
Special situations
- Fire drill and emergency procedures
- Substitute teacher days
- Technology problems
- Feeling unwell or needing a break
Three procedures written out in full
A procedure works best when it is short, specific and written in steps students can follow without asking. Here are three examples you can adapt.
Entering the room
- Wait at the door until the teacher greets you.
- Place your phone in your numbered spot in the caddy.
- Pick up any handout from the front table.
- Sit in your assigned seat and start the warm-up on the board.
- Work silently until the timer ends.
Asking for help during independent work
- Reread the instructions and check your notes.
- Ask your table partner quietly (“Ask three, then me”).
- If you are still stuck, put your name on the help list on the board.
- Move on to the next question while you wait.
Getting work after an absence
- Check the absent folder for handouts and notes from the day you missed.
- Check the class page for digital assignments.
- Copy notes from the class notebook or a study buddy.
- Ask the teacher questions during the first five minutes of independent work, not during instruction.
- Turn in missed work within the number of days you were absent.
Post each procedure where it happens: the entry routine by the door, the help procedure near the board, the absent procedure next to the absent folder.
How to teach a procedure
- Explain the procedure and why it matters.
- Model it yourself, including what it should look and sound like.
- Practice with students, more than once.
- Give feedback and practice again if needed.
- Reinforce it daily for the first few weeks, then re-teach after breaks.
First-week checklist
- Day 1: entering, attention signal, dismissal
- Day 2: warm-up, asking questions, turning in work
- Day 3: group work, devices, finishing early
- Day 4: absences, late work, bathroom pass
- Day 5: review and practice all of the above
Frequently asked questions
What are classroom procedures?
Classroom procedures are step-by-step routines for everyday tasks, such as entering class, turning in work or asking for help.
How many procedures should I teach?
Start with five to eight essential procedures in the first week, then add the rest gradually as situations come up.
What if students stop following procedures?
Re-teach and practice the procedure calmly, the same way you did at the start. Re-teaching after long breaks is normal.
Choose the procedures your class needs most, teach them like content and practice until they are automatic. For a complete system, read our classroom management guide.
Late arrivals disrupting your opening routine? See our guide on how to handle tardy students for a quiet entry routine and a tiered plan.
