At this time of year, I often hear from teachers wondering if they should, or even can, start over again. Either they’ve been inconsistent. Or they didn’t teach their classroom management plan thoroughly enough the first time. Or they didn’t have much of a … 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
One of the core tenets of SCM is to hold your students accountable for every rule violation. You do what you say you’re going to do. You follow through on your promises. Student breaks a rule and you enforce a consequence. It’s as simple … Read more
When teachers first implement an effective classroom management plan . . . By teaching and modeling it in detail. By following it exactly as it’s written. By being consistent day after day. . . . they’re often shocked by how peaceful their classroom becomes. … Read more
We’ve covered the topic of speaking so students will listen extensively here at SCM. We’ve talked about the importance of not repeating yourself. We’ve talked about volume and pacing. We’ve talked about timing, pausing, brevity, clarity, and eye contact. But what we have yet … Read more
Okay, so I’ve got this strategy I’ve been using a long time. But I’ve been reluctant to share it. Because, you see, it can, potentially anyway, be an eensy-weensy bit dangerous. Like stepping into the shower or walking down a flight of stairs. So, … Read more
It’s among the most requested topics we have yet to cover. How do you handle a student who questions you, your decisions, or the way you run your classroom? How do you respond when you know their motives are less than pure? When you … Read more
Here at SCM, we’ve talked a lot about the importance of maintaining a calm disposition. Because it makes you more effective—effortlessly so. Rapport, consistency, likability. Leadership, patience, charisma. All are made better, stronger, and easier by keeping your cool. Two ways to accomplish this … Read more