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
First off, I don’t think it’s terribly important how you keep track of consequences. It’s just important that you do. You never want to be caught flatfooted if a parent asks why their child was in time-out last Tuesday. You also want to be … Read more
Here at SCM, we’ve talked a lot about the importance of keeping your cool when enforcing consequences. We’ve covered how it helps ensure that the offending student takes responsibility for their actions. We’ve covered how it causes them to reflect on their mistakes. We’ve … Read more
The student looks up at you with pleading eyes. They’re distressed. They’re remorseful. They’re in anguish over the mistake they made. “Please . . . I’m so sorry. I promise I’ll never do it again.” Indeed, they appear for all the world to be … Read more
It’s a question we get surprisingly often. Is it ever okay for students to leave their seat without permission? Can they get up and grab a tissue, for example? Can they turn in work or sharpen a pencil or select a new reading book … Read more
Last week we talked about how to be consistent with your classroom management plan. Which is especially important to begin the school year. This alone will go a long way toward creating the learning environment you really want. Once you’ve conquered this challenge, however, … Read more
Your class rules are the first line of defense against misbehavior. They should never be left to chance. They should never be created as an afterthought or copied from the teacher next door. They must be created thoughtfully and in a way that is … Read more
So you have this student. Let’s call her Brittany. And Brittany frustrates you to no end. Because despite holding her accountable, she continues to break the same rule over and over. Oh, she may hold off for a few days, a week perhaps, but … Read more