A paragraph has three main elements:

• A topic sentence with a limited subject and a controlling (main) idea
• A body that provides supporting points and specific details)
• A conclusion that may be a restatement of the main idea; a recommendation, advice, or a warning; a summary of the major supporting points; an opinion, a prediction, or a final comment).

Read the following paragraphs about how teachers of elementary school students maintain discipline or control in their classrooms. Then complete the vocabulary activity and analysis that follows.

How American Teachers Motivate and Discipline Students

In the United States, teachers of elementary school children usually use two methods to motivate students and maintain control in their classrooms. Most teachers have their own methods of positive reinforcement; in other words, they reward students for success in their academic work and for good behavior. When students get high grades on a paper or an exam, the students’ names may be listed on a chart with a star or special sticker next to it. These charts are posted on the classroom wall for everyone to see. If students finish their assignments quickly and have extra time, the teacher might allow them to select a favorite book to read quietly or let them work extra time on computers. At certain intervals throughout the semester, successful students may be given certificates for outstanding work, and once a month a student is selected as “student of the month” for demonstrating a positive attitude, helpfulness and good behavior.

However, if students are disruptive, a teacher has to use disciplinary measures to control their behavior. For example, if students are disrespectful to the teacher or other students, the teacher usually reprimands them in front of the class. If the misbehavior continues, the offensive students may be sent to the principal’s office and their parents may be called. For fighting or abusive language on the playground, students may be given a "time out" and have to sit on a bench for the remainder of the recess. For the most serious offenses such as sexual harassment or bringing a weapon to school, the student can be suspended or even expelled from school. By using these methods of rewarding and punishing students, teachers can maintain a school environment that is positive and conducive to learning.

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