There is nothing wrong with a class clown. In fact, students gifted with a clever sense of humor can be a wonderful asset to your classroom. They can be another ingredient in the mix that helps you create a learning environment students love being … Read more
Here at SCM we maintain a long list of article requests. We don’t, however, typically choose from the top of that list. The way it works is that when we receive a request, we first check to see if anyone has made a similar … Read more
“Why on earth would you want to do that?” “What? That doesn’t make any sense.” “Where in the world did you get that idea?” They are comments that roll off the tongue without second thought. They’re a gut reaction to a private question or … Read more
Requiring students to raise their hand before speaking is good classroom management practice. You can’t very well control the flow of learning and discussion while being interrupted every few minutes. Inspiration will sag. Trains of thought will vanish. Boredom and inattentiveness will pervade your … Read more
Here at Smart Classroom Management we hear from teachers and administrators from all four corners of the globe. And one of the more perplexing trends in classroom management is to give students choices instead of consequences. For example: Let’s say a student named Jason … Read more
Listening is a topic we return to again and again here at SCM. Because it’s that important. The difference in learning and behavior between a class that listens well and one that doesn’t is monumental. It’s also an area many teachers struggle with, as … Read more
After giving directions, it’s common for teachers to ask, “Are there any questions?” Which isn’t a bad idea, per se, especially if the teacher follows with an extended pause. After all, it’s good practice to allow students a moment or two to ponder the … Read more
Transitions are among the most perilous times of the day. The frenetic movement, the close interaction, the loud voices and sense of freedom . . . All conspire to increase the likelihood of misbehavior. Transitions can also waste precious learning time, bring tension and … Read more