Recently, I had a chance to visit a classroom management training for new teachers. The trainer was an expert in a program that has gained popularity in recent years. I won’t mention the program by name, but at its core, it’s a token economy, … Read more
So the lesson finished earlier than you expected. And now you have ten minutes to fill. Ten. Minutes. For many teachers, the very thought can make them break out in hives. Because, even when you have a reliable activity you can pull out at … Read more
There are those who believe you should never tell a student who volunteers an answer that they’re wrong. And I certainly understand why. It can be embarrassing for them. It can feel like a rejection. It can discourage them from sharing again in the … Read more
The title of this article comes straight from a reader’s question. It assumes that taking responsibility is something that you, the teacher, must secure from the misbehaving student. It assumes that it’s something the student must verbalize to you. It isn’t. In fact, if … Read more
During transitions, it’s common to focus on moving your students from one thing to the next as quickly and painlessly as possible. But in doing so, you pass up an opportunity to ensure that that next thing goes according to plan. You pass up … Read more
“Why do we have to raise our hand?” “Why can’t we talk while we’re working?” “Why do we have to walk in line?” The questions may be different, but they’re all meant to challenge your methods. They’re meant to challenge your decisions, your motives, … Read more
While coaching teachers this time of year, I find myself repeating the same phrase again and again: “You’re going to lay everything out for your students ahead of time.” What I mean by this is that the teacher is going to remove all uncertainty … Read more
Trust is an often-overlooked aspect of effective classroom management. But it’s critically important. It’s important because when your students trust you—really trust you—everything is easier. And when they don’t? Well, nothing works as it should. Listening, attentiveness, motivation, work habits, respect, behavior . . … Read more