I’m often asked about the first day of school, so I’ve written many articles on the topic. Most are about establishing routines and implementing an effective classroom management plan—which are important, to be sure. But they’re not my number one goal on the first … Read more
Last week, I shared a way to make sure your class rules cover every possible misbehavior. But if you did the exercise, you may have noticed something strange. Something you weren’t sure what to do with. Something left over. You see, the exercise was … Read more
The purpose of class rules is to protect every student’s right to learn and enjoy school. It’s to form an impenetrable boundary that keeps misbehavior out and the freedom to teach in. Do your rules do that? Do they account for every possible disruption? … Read more
Recently, I had an unnerving conversation with a student after class. Here’s how it went: Student: “Mr. Linsin, did I earn full credit today?” Me: “Yep, 100%.” Student: “Are you lying?” Me: “Of course not. I would never lie to you.” Student: “Whew, okay.” … Read more
Likability is a key principle of SCM—because it makes building rapport effortless. It causes students to want to listen to you, please you, and behave for you. It helps make your consequences matter. Being disliked, on the other hand, makes classroom management far more … Read more
No, it’s not when your class has gone off the rails. It’s not after a chaotic lesson. And it’s not when your teacherly sense tells you you should. —Although these are all indeed good reasons to review your plan. No, the best time to … Read more
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