I know this to be true after years of working with thousands of teachers struggling with classroom management: They don’t know what they want from their students. Should they allow talking while entering the classroom? Should they allow calling out during discussions? Should they … Read more
You can’t force it. This is the mistake teachers make. Trying to pull quiet, shy, or distrustful students out of their shell does the opposite. It makes them less likely to participate and engage in discussions. It causes them more discomfort and embarrassment. It … Read more
It’s not because you hold them accountable. This is a myth. In fact, as long as you follow through as promised—and without lecturing, berating, questioning, etc.—your likability will increase. It will get stronger along with their trust in you. But there are distinct and … Read more
Surprisingly, it’s becoming more common, not less. You’d think that refraining from threatening consequences—rather than following through on them—would be classroom management 101. But since the pandemic, and the precipitous drop in standards, the old “Stop what you’re doing or else” has made a … Read more
What does it matter? Who cares if students wear their pants below their waist or show more skin than you’re comfortable with? As long as it doesn’t interfere with your teaching, what’s the big deal? It’s a style, a fashion statement. It allows them … Read more
According to a National Center for Education Statistics survey, 56 percent of school leaders believe the pandemic has led to an increase of student misbehavior. And they’re not even in the classroom. Ask teachers the same question and that percentage is likely to go … Read more
A student comes to you and begs for a second chance. They swear that from now on things will be different. They just need you to fix this one little grade, ignore their latest wee misbehavior, let them redo the test, essay, or project. … Read more
A problem with education today is that many (many) teachers make their lessons too complex. The result is that students become . . . Bored Disengaged Unmotivated Antsy Disobedient Again and again, I observe teachers taking basic concepts and twisting them into medieval labyrinths … Read more