Part 1: Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)

Based on a hypothetical class profile, let’s create a sample BIP for a student named Michael.

Behavior: Difficulty staying seated during whole-group instruction. Michael frequently gets out of his chair, walks around the classroom, and disrupts other students.

Goals and Measurement:

1. Increase time spent seated:Track the percentage of time Michael remains seated during a whole-group lesson using a simple timer and tally chart. The goal is to gradually increase seated time to 80% within four weeks.
2. Decrease disruptive behavior:Monitor the frequency of disruptions caused by Michael’s movement (e.g., talking out of turn, touching others) using a behavior checklist. Aim for a 50% reduction in disruptions within four weeks.

Interventions and Frequency:

1. Positive reinforcement:Provide immediate praise (e.g., “Great job staying seated, Michael!”) whenever Michael remains seated for designated periods (start with short intervals and gradually increase).
2. Choice board:Offer Michael a choice of quiet activities (e.g., fidget toy, short movement break) to do while seated if he starts to feel restless. He can choose an activity after completing a set amount of seated time. (Available throughout instruction)
3. Proximity control:The teacher can strategically position themselves near Michael to provide visual cues and reminders to stay seated. (Ongoing)

Person Responsible: Teacher, with support from a teaching assistant (if available)

Part 2: Strategies for Challenging Behavior

Effective Classroom Management Techniques:

1. Specific Praise:

• Description:Highlight specific positive behaviors verbally and non-verbally (e.g., thumbs up, stickers).
• Implementation Example:“Thank you, Sarah, for raising your hand to answer the question!”
• Motivation:Positive reinforcement encourages desired behaviors.
• Caution:Avoid generic praise (“good job”) and focus on specific actions.

2. Choice Making:

• Description:Offer students limited choices to promote a sense of control.
• Implementation Example:“Would you like to read the passage silently or listen to me read it aloud?”
• Motivation:Choice increases engagement and reduces power struggles.
• Caution:Ensure choices align with learning objectives and avoid overwhelming students with too many options.

3. Effective Group Contingencies:

• Description:Reward positive behavior by the entire group to encourage collaboration.
• Implementation Example:“If everyone stays focused for the next 10 minutes, we can have a short puzzle break.”
• Motivation:Promotes peer support and a sense of shared responsibility.
• Caution:Consider individual needs and avoid penalizing well-behaved students for the actions of others.

4. Contingent Instructions:

• Description:Provide clear instructions followed by the desired behavior and a positive consequence.
• Implementation Example:“First, raise your hand quietly, then I’ll be happy to hear your question.”
• Motivation:Creates predictability and a clear link between behavior and reinforcement.
• Caution:Ensure instructions are specific, age-appropriate, and delivered calmly.

5. Time-Out:

• Description:A brief removal from the activity for students who display disruptive behavior.
• Implementation Example:“If you continue to call out, you will need to take a short break in the designated quiet area.”
• Motivation:Provides an opportunity to calm down and reflect on behavior.
• Caution:Time-out should not be used as punishment but as a chance to reset and return to the activity. Ensure a designated quiet area is calm and free from distractions.

Communication Strategies for Diverse Learners:

These strategies can be adapted for students with disabilities by using clear, concise language, visuals, and providing opportunities for alternative communication methods (e.g., communication boards, assistive technology).

Decision-Making Process for Intervention:

Teachers consider factors like the severity of the behavior, its impact on learning, and the student’s individual needs. They will typically try less restrictive interventions first and progress to more intensive strategies if needed. Data from behavior tracking helps guide the decision-making process and assess the effectiveness of interventions.