FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which statement reflects classroom management through negative reinforcement?

1. "If you would start turning in your homework, I wouldn't have to call your mother every afternoon!"

2. "If homework is not turned in by Friday, you will lose recess time."

3. "I will give you a reward if you participate in class."

4. "All students should be quiet to earn extra free time."

The correct answer is: "If you would start turning in your homework, I wouldn't have to call your mother every afternoon!"

The chosen statement demonstrates classroom management through negative reinforcement because it highlights the removal of an unpleasant stimulus as a way to encourage a desired behavior. In this case, the unpleasant stimulus is the frequent phone calls to the student's mother. By offering the student the option to avoid these calls through the action of turning in their homework, it creates a scenario where the student is motivated to change their behavior in order to eliminate an undesirable consequence. In understanding the concepts of reinforcement, it is essential to clarify that negative reinforcement does not mean punishment; rather, it focuses on the removal of a negative condition to increase a desired behavior. This approach can effectively encourage students to meet expectations, as they see a direct correlation between their actions and the alleviation of discomfort. The other choices represent different techniques. The second option involves a punishment for not completing homework, which is a form of negative consequences rather than negative reinforcement. The third option employs positive reinforcement by offering a reward for participation, and the fourth option relates to a group incentive that requires quietness for additional free time, which is also a form of positive reinforcement. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for applying effective classroom management strategies.