Tips from Classroom Veterans
Classroom management is an art and one that’s learned through trial and error. What worked for one class or student may not work for another. Here are some tips from veteran teachers on discipline:
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Establish a routine for students as they enter and leave your classroom. You could have an assignment on the board; you could post an outline of the topics you’ll cover today; or you can have a “pick-up table” where students can get everything they need for class that day.
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Avoid phrases like “Be nice, “or “Be kind” as a rule. They’re nice goals but too vague to serve as a rule.
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Don’t make silly “If-then” statements. Instead make positive statements.
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Use motivators to encourage good behavior. Rewards don’t have to be candy and food; use free or talk time, media passes or computer time as incentives.
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Keep moving. Always be on your feet moving around the room.
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Maintain high levels of student involvement. Active learning reduces the time students have to misbehave.
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Know your students’ names. This is a sign of respect.
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Give the impression of being with every student at all times. Frequently scanning the class helps.
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Accurately target misbehaving students. Don’t punish the whole class for the misdeeds of one or two.
Enforce fair consequences for misbehavior. Having students play a part in setting classroom rules will help. -
Keep the misdeeds of students between you and the student except for those who have a right to know. Don’t openly compare one student to another.
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Apologize if you’ve treated a student unjustly. Let the class know you made a mistake.
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Avoid situations which force students to have to save face. You could end up the loser in this battle.
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Let each student start each day with a clean slate. What happened yesterday should stay there.
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If you feel less than successful after the first month, just reevaluate your rules and policies.