Tier 1 · Universal
Precorrection
Remind students of the expectation just before the moment they’re likely to struggle.
How to do it
- Identify the times or settings where the problem behaviour usually happens (your ABC data will show this).
- Just before that time, state the expected behaviour briefly: “In a moment we’ll line up. Remember, hands at your sides and voices off.”
- For an individual student, give the reminder privately and have them repeat it back if helpful.
- Watch for the behaviour and praise it immediately when you see it.
- Fade the reminders as the routine becomes automatic.
Why it works
- Prevents behaviour instead of reacting to it
- Gives the student a chance to succeed and be praised
- Takes seconds and works for the whole class
When to use it
- Before transitions, moving around the school, group work, or assemblies
- Before a known trigger for a specific student
- When a routine has recently gone poorly
Tips and pitfalls
- Precorrection is a reminder, not a warning. Keep your tone neutral and upbeat.
- Pair it with a visual cue for students who miss verbal directions.
Templates for this strategy
ABC observation log
Record what happened before, during, and after each incident to find patterns and the likely function of the behaviour.
ABC observation log.docxHelps with
Not working after a fair trial?
Check that it’s been used consistently for 4–6 weeks and that your data shows the pattern. If so, look at the next tier of support for this behaviour.
Tier 2 · Targeted