When individual students misbehave, it’s common practice for teachers to pull them aside and ask why they did what they did. But rarely is it a simple request—because the majority of students will be less than forthcoming in their response. They’ll deny and distract. … Read more
It’s a common complaint. You give a direction and . . . nothing happens. Your students just sit there—like they didn’t hear a word you said. A few begin moving, perhaps, but slowly, even grudgingly. Others look at each other like, “Oh, are we … Read more
There are students who have learned from an early age that if they misbehave enough, if they disrupt, interfere, and otherwise make life miserable for everyone around them, then they can get the adults in their life to give in and give them what … Read more
You can’t teach your students to respect you. Oh sure, you can try. Many teachers do. They harp on it, do read alouds about it, and even role-play it. But in the end, students can’t be persuaded or talked into respecting you. No, in … Read more
Maybe it’s the moment you find yourself talking over your students, raising your voice just to be heard above the din. Maybe it’s while in the midst of another lesson spiraling into disorder. Maybe it’s the flash of recognition upon locking eyes with a … Read more
Last week we showed how giving reminders after misbehavior is a mistake. Holding your students accountable is a much better option, resulting in improved listening, better behavior, and greater urgency in following your directions. But here’s the thing. If you aren’t clear about what … Read more
So you lost your cool. You raised your voice. You put your students in their place. You stomped around in a huff and behaved in a manner you’re not proud of. You said things you wish you could take back. And now as the … Read more
Difficult students behave the way they do because somewhere along the line the ball was dropped. Standards were lowered. Rules were ignored. Excuses were made. Relationships were broken—or were never developed to begin with. But fate has intervened. And it has been left to … Read more