There is a moment when classroom behavior always gets worse. It is a moment that is entirely controlled by the teacher. Yet, few teachers are aware of it. The moment consists of something the teacher does—or, more accurately, doesn’t do. It also typically gets … Read more
Recently, I watched a second grade teacher walking her class to lunch. She was leading from the front and extremely active. She would stop often to guide her students with her hands, fuss with their lunch boxes, and remind them to stay in line. … Read more
Whenever your students are performing a routine, you must observe them closely. There are three reasons for this: 1. Knowing that you’re watching keeps them on track. 2. It’s the only way to confirm expectations are being fulfilled. 3. It allows you to enforce … Read more
Going a day without modeling is like gardening without a trowel. Because modeling engages students. It draws them in and holds their attention. It removes any doubt about what you want them to do. It also provides purpose that motivates and dissuades misbehavior. But … Read more
I’m often asked what to do when your class isn’t badly behaved, but still disruptive. In other words, as a group they tend to be excitable and talkative. Every transition and activity you have to settle and quiet them down. It’s a common question … Read more
Narration is a very common strategy, and has been for decades. The way it works is simple. After giving a direction, or signal to begin a routine, the teacher describes aloud the positive behaviors they see. “Jonathan is walking with his hands to himself.” … Read more
Routines make everything easier. Because they . . . Transfer excellence to everything you do. Cut way down on misbehavior. Save loads of time. Keep students on task and purpose-driven. Free you to observe and supervise. Which is why anything and everything you do … Read more
Routines are the lifeblood of a well-run classroom. Because, done right, they save tons of learning time. They keep students focused and on task. They cut way down on misbehavior. They also make your teaching life a lot easier. For everything you do as … Read more