It’s easy to get pulled into an argument. Example: You notice a student pushing a classmate during a transition. It’s a clear violation of your classroom management plan, so you move in and enforce a consequence. Upon hearing the news, however, the student’s eyes … Read more
If you’re a longtime reader of Smart Classroom Management, then you know that we hold true the belief that classroom management is knowledge based. It’s something you can learn, apply, and see drastic, transformational improvement—no matter who you are or where you teach. Students … Read more
A warning is a courtesy you provide your students. It’s a declaration of free grace you offer by letting them know that you are aware a rule has been broken. But that no real consequence is forthcoming. It’s a consequence only in the sense … Read more
So you have this student who seems determined to ruin your school year. He (or she) is blatantly disrespectful. He makes fun of and laughs at other students. He’s rude and silly. He’s argumentative and attention-seeking. He is well known by every staff member … Read more
Getting involved too quickly is among the most common classroom management mistakes. Yelling from across the room, waving to catch an offending student’s attention, rushing into a disruptive scene with flashing eyes and rising temper . . . These are natural, instinctual reactions. As … 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
Can you tell when you’re going to have a bad day? Can you sense an unhealthy energy rising up in your students or a disquieting buzz you just can’t place? Do you know it the minute your students walk into your classroom? Maybe it’s … Read more
When a student refuses to go to time-out, he (or she) often has a good reason. This doesn’t mean he isn’t responsible for making such a decision. He is—completely and fully. For it’s never okay to defy a teacher’s direction. But in his mind … Read more