In the past, I’ve written about the importance of ensuring a happy first day of school experience for your students. There are many reasons for this, but the biggest is that it gives you leverage. You see, when students like being in your classroom, … Read more
No, you’re not going to ignore their misbehavior. It’s just that . . . well, let’s back up a little. When you first receive your roster for the coming year, it’s normal to want to get the lowdown on your new class. It’s normal … Read more
Recently, a number of readers have shown an interest in how I go about creating a weekly article. So I thought this would be a good week to take a look behind the scenes here at SCM. And unpack the process of writing a … Read more
Here at SCM, we receive a lot of questions about how to teach lessons that capture student interest. And for good reason. The ability to get your students to want to listen and pay attention plays a critical role in curbing misbehavior. It also … Read more
A few weeks ago, I wrote about the importance of explaining ‘why’ when presenting your classroom management plan. Studies have shown that people are more likely to do what you ask if you give them a reason. Even if that reason isn’t terribly compelling. … Read more
It happens for no apparent reason. You’re cruising along. Your students are attentive and respectful. They’re listening and getting their work done. Behavior is good. But then, out of nowhere, you notice a slight fraying at the seams. They enter the classroom with a … Read more
With just days left in the school year, your students can feel the freedom of summer fast approaching. Testing is behind them. Grades are all but complete. Anticipation is in the air. And with one foot already out the door, it changes them. They … Read more
Here at SCM, we talk a lot about the importance of creating a classroom students look forward to. It’s one of our core principles. Because, when your students enjoy being a member of your class, they’re naturally inclined to follow rules. They want to … Read more