Unwanted talking is near the top of the list of teacher frustrations. Although not considered severe misbehavior, it can nonetheless severely disrupt learning. It can hijack listening, shatter concentration, and cause other students to join in as well. It’s a thorny issue—because it’s hard … Read more
Four of every ten new teachers leave the profession within five years. That is a staggering number. It’s made all the more alarming given that teacher shortages in the US are expected to exceed 300,000 by 2020. Although low starting pay, large class sizes, … Read more
Classical music has many wonderful benefits for the classroom. Studies have shown that it can . . . reduce stress and anxiety. improve memory. increase productivity. enhance concentration. raise well-being. spark creativity. I like to put the music on as students are entering the … Read more
No, your class isn’t terrible. They’re just silly, unfocused, excitable. In a word, crazy. It’s frustrating because you’ve been over your classroom management plan again and again. And they do get it. In fact, individually they’re great kids. It’s just, as a group they … Read more
It’s a common frustration. You know you’re a good teacher. You’re calm and friendly toward your students. You prepare interesting lessons and never threaten or yell. And yet, you’re still struggling. Your students aren’t terrible, but they’re often rambunctious. They seem immature for their … Read more
“Why do we have to raise our hands?” “Why can’t we talk in the hallway?” “Why do we have to do it like that.” It can feel, depending on their tone of voice, disrespectful. It can feel as if they’re trying to put you … Read more
It’s common to assume that allowing students to talk to whomever they want about whatever they want is a bad thing. That it wastes time. That it gets them off track. That it riles them up and causes misbehavior. But when you decide when … Read more
It’s only natural to want to focus on what matters. To concern yourself primarily with content, lessons, and academic performance. To be a stickler about students getting their essays or projects done right. And give short shrift to the ordinary, everyday, and mundane. But … Read more