The Power of 4:1 Ratio “How to improve behavior by pointing out what students do right”

Rationale- What Does 4 Positives to 1 Negative Mean? Students should experience predominately positive interactions (ratio of 4 positives for every negative) in all locations of school. Positive Interactions: Behaviorally specific feedback as to what the student did right (contingent) Smile, nod, greeting, attention, hand shake, high five (non-contingent)

How Does 4 to 1 Happen? Interact in a friendly, supportive manner at all times---students, parents, guests and colleagues Initiate positive interactions by: Making eye contact Smiling nodding, winking Welcoming Offering a greeting Asking if assistance is required Provide positive feedback regarding appropriate student behavior Maintain an attitude of respect and support, even when correcting student behavior

5 : 1 Ratio, It’s not Just for Kids Business Teams: High Performance = 5.6 positives to 1negative Medium Performance = 1.9 positives to 1 negative Low Performance = 1 positive to 2.7 negatives Losada, 1999; Losada & Heaphy, 2004 Successful Marriages: 5.1 positives to 1 negative (speech acts) and 4.7 positives to 1 negative (observed emotions) Gottoman, 1994

Encourage Expected Behavior Providing praise for correct academic responses and appropriate social behavior leads to: Increases in student correct responses Increases in on task behavior Decreases in disruptive behaviors (Sutherland, 2000)

Encourage Expected Behavior: Verbal Feedback Tie the following to your school-wide expectations: Be specific and descriptive Focus on the expected positive behavior Be timely and accurate Make sure all comments are age-appropriate Make sure that all comments are positive in manner (sarcasm is inappropriate because it is not always understood)

Examples of Non-Verbal Feedback Smile Nod Thumbs-up Pat on the back High-five Hug (when and where appropriate)

Ratio of Interactions 4:1 ratio of positive-to-negative statements Each time you have a negative interaction, tell yourself you owe that student positive interactions Identify specific times you will give positive feedback Schedule individual conference time Scan the room for appropriate behaviors to compliment Engage in frequent positive interactions with all students

YouTube video Randy Sprick explains the 3:1 ratio of positive to negative comments.