So what is brazen behavior? I define it as anything especially disruptive, silly, or defiant. Some examples: Running or chasing in the classroom. Yelling, bursting laughter, or falling on the floor. Roughhousing and practical jokes. Ignoring specific directions or commands. Throwing spitwads, erasers, or … Read more
There is a trait great teachers share. It isn’t something you can see, not at first glance anyway. But every student can sense it. They can feel it viscerally while in their teacher’s presence. It’s something lasting, highly influential, and part of who the … Read more
Every school talks about high expectations. Only a small few actually live it. The truth is, for the most part, it’s a sham. Expectations for student behavior in this day and age are knee-high to a five year old. And getting lower by the … Read more
There are techniques that can help you maintain a calm disposition throughout each teaching day. Even if chaos is swirling around you. We’ve covered several in the past, both in our books and here on the website. But today I want to share with … Read more
You lost your cool and barked at your class—or at a certain student. You had a weak moment and took matters into your own hands instead of following your classroom management plan. And now you’re beating yourself up for it. You’re convinced that you’ve … Read more
I’ve been writing about praise since 2009, but there is still a lot of confusion over its use. Typically, praise is given far too frequently. Most classrooms are a constant stream of way-to-gos and good-jobs, regardless of accomplishment—or lack thereof. Also known as false … Read more
So you have this student who seemingly at every break wants to share critical information with you. Sometimes it’s an observation. “The heater is making a strange clicking sound.” Sometimes it’s a suggestion. “I think you should line the class up in alphabetical order.” … Read more
You give and you give. You give your patience and humor. You give your positivity and respect. You give your heart and hope for their future. And they discard it. They crumble it up and toss it in the trash. They meet your smile, … Read more