| Groups of
students who misbehave in public can be a distracting and embarrassing
when, in fact, they simply don’t understand what acceptable
behavior is. Good behavior and the expectation of that behavior
can and should be taught. There is a very specific way to teach
students how to behave at assemblies and in public. They learn how to
correctly enter and exit the multipurpose room and to go up on or leave
the stage when performing. They learn what appropriate audience
behavior looks like, such as sitting quietly, keeping their hands and
feet to themselves. They learn how to use the microphone, and
older students learn how to be emcees for events. They are taught the
difference between expressing appreciation at a fine arts theater
versus at a sporting event. Students who have been taught correct
assembly behavior carry that behavior into other areas such as field
trips to community or in-house performances. They can also be
instructed as a group in what will be happening at events such as
Career Day or an Oratorical Contest. Assemblies are a great way
for students to perform in front of their peers. They may be
trying out a poem as an individual or a group while getting ready for
something like a Black history celebration. It is absolutely true
that parents who rarely visit school will come if their children are in
a performance. This is a good time to meet them and encourage
them to participate in other ways such as joining the PTA.
Monthly assemblies accomplish the following tasks:
• Teach appropriate assembly and other large group etiquette
• Provide a venue for large group instruction • Showcase student talent • Encourage parent involvement |
