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
One of the biggest causes of misbehavior is excitability. It’s also one of the hardest to fix. The reason is that most struggling teachers just don’t notice it. They become so used to the tension, so accustomed to the antsiness and disquiet, that they’re … Read more
Encouraging your students to become service-oriented is a powerful classroom management strategy. Because it creates empathy. It causes them to see their classmates as people just like them, with the same hopes, feelings, and struggles. It virtually eliminates bullying and improves self-worth. Most importantly, … Read more
When your class gives a subpar performance, the tendency is to ease up. To take your foot off the gas. To think, “Maybe I’m asking too much.” This is a normal response after a so-so routine, an unfocused lesson, or off-topic group work. But … Read more
The end of the day or period can be a chaotic time. You may be distracted, passing things out or giving last-minute instruction. Your students, poised to leave, may not be so attentive. Voices get loud. Misbehavior tends to increase. And holding students accountable … Read more
I may disappoint some people with what I’m about to write. But first let me back up a bit. For the past several years, managing students with ADHD has been near the top of the list of SCM reader requests. And it’s something I’ve … Read more
There is a secret a small cadre of teachers share that can drastically improve your class. It works in all situations and grade levels. It’s simple and straightforward. It causes a giant leap in progress—from behavior and listening to work habits and attentiveness. It’s … Read more
As the holiday season ramps up, students become antsier. They can feel the midyear break just around the corner. And their excitement builds day by day. The weather, the music, the traditions. The decorations, the lights, the commercials. Despite how much your school may … Read more