Teachers who struggle with classroom management do too much hoping. They hope they have a well-behaved class this year. They hope their students won’t be too talkative or disrespectful. They hope they don’t have to deal with yet another disruption. They try to set … Read more
The core principles we associate with classroom management—rules and consequences, incentives, and following through—are important. No doubt about it. The first step for teachers wanting to improve is to learn how to use them effectively. By following these principles, your classroom management plan will … Read more
Can you get your students’ attention—and keep it—any time you want to? Can you do it consistently and without fuss? When you give your signal, do your students immediately stop what they’re doing and look at you? Being able to get your students’ attention … Read more
The link between classical music and learning is well established. It has been shown to enhance certain forms of intelligence, like verbal and spatial abilities. And teachers who regularly play Mozart while students are practicing math skills report that it helps with concentration and … Read more
Much of your classroom management success is dependent upon your ability to avoid making big mistakes. Make them often enough, or repeatedly, and you’ll lose control of your classroom quickly. Before long, you’ll begin to believe teaching in a chaotic environment is just part … Read more
If you’re looking for elaborate or decorative classroom management ideas, you won’t find them here. Though prevalent, such ideas are unnecessary, even counterproductive, for classroom management. On this site, we’re focused on only two things: 1. What works best. 2. What is simplest for … Read more
Among the traits that make a great teacher, enthusiasm is near the top. Your passion for delivering captivating lessons and activities to your students largely determines your success in motivating students. We’re all attracted to people who live their lives with zeal, and students … Read more
Your classroom management plan doesn’t have to be complex to be effective. Four rules and three consequences will usually do the trick. Indeed, there is no magic in the plan itself. It’s the stuff in between, the strategery (see Will Ferrell), that determines whether … Read more