Authority plays an important role in effective classroom management. Because it affects how students view you. It affects how well they listen to you and follow your directions. It affects their behavior around you, their trust in you, and their respect for you. Some … Read more
Of the many items on your first-day-of-school checklist, three promises should go at the very top. Because, together, they have the power to set a tone of kindness and good behavior that lasts for the entire school year. They also make you instantly likeable … Read more
A calm disposition can sweep excitability right out of your classroom. It can improve listening and attentiveness. It can curb misbehavior and accelerate maturity. It can also make you a more effective teacher. But inevitably, whenever I write about its importance, the question of … Read more
“Please, just give me one more chance.” “I’m really sorry.” “I promise, it won’t happen again.” “I know it was wrong.” “I messed up, and I’ve learned my lesson.” “Please . . .” They plead. They beg. They petition. They dramatize, beseech, and implore … Read more
Cultivating a calm disposition will make you a better teacher. It will also improve classroom management. Because students respect it. They’re drawn to it and admire it. Perhaps more than any other trait. It gives you a natural leadership presence and an effortless ability … Read more
As the school year draws to a close, voices tend to grow louder. Routines get sloppier. Students become distracted, excitable, and primed for misbehavior. After all, they can feel the warmth of summer on their skin. The smell of sunblock and freedom is in … Read more
Success is secured ahead of time. It’s something you set your students up for through detailed instruction. You make your content compelling. You show them—model for them—what you expect. You provide precise steps to follow. You practice, review, take questions, and check for understanding. … Read more
It’s demoralizing. You plan a great lesson. You give it your enthusiastic best. But your students don’t respond well. At all. They’re distracted and sleepy. They’re bored and slouched in their seats. They’re uninspired and blase’ about what you have to teach them. When … Read more