A few weeks ago, I wrote about the importance of explaining ‘why’ when presenting your classroom management plan. Studies have shown that people are more likely to do what you ask if you give them a reason. Even if that reason isn’t terribly compelling. … Read more
Before rushing headlong into summer, it’s instructive to take a look back. To reflect on what went well during the past school year and what didn’t. Because, unless you know where you need to improve, you’re destined to experience the same frustrations year after … Read more
It happens for no apparent reason. You’re cruising along. Your students are attentive and respectful. They’re listening and getting their work done. Behavior is good. But then, out of nowhere, you notice a slight fraying at the seams. They enter the classroom with a … Read more
With just days left in the school year, your students can feel the freedom of summer fast approaching. Testing is behind them. Grades are all but complete. Anticipation is in the air. And with one foot already out the door, it changes them. They … Read more
Here at SCM, we talk a lot about the importance of creating a classroom students look forward to. It’s one of our core principles. Because, when your students enjoy being a member of your class, they’re naturally inclined to follow rules. They want to … Read more
Tattling is annoying. It’s disruptive. It’s petty. It wastes time and gets on your nerves. We think of it as something students do to gain attention or get others in trouble. So we wave them off. We send them back to their seat. We … Read more
It’s important that your students know you care about them. It’s important that they know you’re there for them. It’s important that they know you only want what is best for them. This is no small thing. The teacher whose students believe this about … Read more
Here at SCM, we’ve received a number of emails asking how best to handle students who misbehave outside the four walls of the classroom, but while still in your presence. In other words, how do you respond to rule-breaking while walking to lunch, for … Read more