So what is brazen behavior? I define it as anything especially disruptive, silly, or defiant. Some examples: Running or chasing in the classroom. Yelling, bursting laughter, or falling on the floor. Roughhousing and practical jokes. Ignoring specific directions or commands. Throwing spitwads, erasers, or … Read more
It’s common for teachers to have blind spots. —Areas they’re unaware of but have a negative impact on classroom management. Being perceived by students as a pushover is a prime example. They all know it. But the teacher doesn’t have a clue. This is … Read more
It’s among the most requested topics we have yet to cover. How do you handle a student who questions you, your decisions, or the way you run your classroom? How do you respond when you know their motives are less than pure? When you … Read more
Eye rolls, deep sighs, melodramatic body language . . . They’re responses to teacher requests or reminders (i.e. “Please put your backpack away.”) that aren’t quite disrespectful. But darn close. Sometimes they’re accompanied by a sarcastic “Sorry!” or “Oh my gosh!” They’re delivered indirectly … 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
Recently, I received an email from a teacher who was yelled at by a student. Her class had been in the middle of a learning game, and everything was going smoothly. Or so she thought. The students were playing by the rules. They were … Read more
A reader emailed SCM last week wondering how to handle six students who were wreaking havoc in his classroom. Every day they were disruptive. They were talkative and silly. They called out during lessons and made inappropriate comments. They played off one another and … Read more
There is nothing wrong with a class clown. In fact, students gifted with a clever sense of humor can be a wonderful asset to your classroom. They can be another ingredient in the mix that helps you create a learning environment students love being … Read more