Many would agree that management of student behaviors is the MOST important thing to master as a teacher. For some, it may come naturally and easy. But for others, learning how to manage a classroom full of different personalities, interests, and needs takes practice. As teachers, it is our job to set the tone of our classroom community from day one of school and remain consistent. Here are three classroom management strategies that will help you create a calm and respectful environment!
One of the best books I've read about classroom management, "The Classroom Management Secret" by Michael Linsin, explains that teachers need to be transparent about classroom expectations. I remember my first years of teaching, when I expected students to "just know" how to do certain things like line up, sharpen pencils, and organize their desks. To my surprise, they did not "just know" how to do these things! During the first weeks of school, it is our job as teachers to model (in a positive way) everything we expect our students to do. By doing this, Linsin suggests, many negative behaviors magically disappear! This is because often times, negative behaviors are caused by a misunderstanding of expectations. I have definitely found this to be true in my own classroom. I hold off on the prize boxes, reward systems, and all those fun incentives because nothing can replace a strong foundation of rules and routines!
Do you create rules with your students? While this may be a nice classroom community experience, the list can become very long!
Try shortening the list and sticking to three or four classroom rules that cover all the bases!
These simple classroom rules include two designs of just three simple rules!
Model these rules with your students to help them gain a deep understanding. "Fishbowling" is a great teaching strategy for modeling. To do this, invite a student volunteer to help you model a rule. Tell the rest of the class that it is their job to watch very closely. After you finish modeling with the student, open up a discussion with your class about what went well and what needs to be worked on.
This resource also includes consequences! Yes, consequences! When students break a rule the first time, they receive a warning. Second time, I tell them to take a "reset" which means they can sit in our calm down area for a few minutes. Third time, I reach out to parents. The trick to integrating consequences is to stay calm as the teacher. Show you students that it is OK to make mistakes and do not get emotional. It is also important to have an overall positive attitude as the teacher!
How many times have you asked a question and wished you saw more hands raised? This participation management system will help you set clear expectations about how to participate.
Students absolutely need this! A lack of participation in the classroom could result from student nerves, misunderstanding of information, or unclear expectations.
Give students everything they need to succeed in the area of participation! This resource includes 4 clearly outlined "levels" of participation, similar to a rubric. Model each level with students and discuss what level 4 participation looks like vs. level 2 participation.
Talk stems are also a great way to help students feel confident enough to raise their hands! This resource includes many talk stems to help students join the conversation.
You will thank yourself throughout the year if you introduce these routines and procedures slides during the first week fo school!
They cover every classroom routine from sharpening a pencil to transitioning. Revisit these procedures often and use the "Act it Out" slides to score your performance with your class. Make routines and procedures fun!
Keeping these routines and procedures in a binder can be helpful to refer back to with students.
Also, leave the binder out for substitute teachers and they will really appreciate you!
This resource includes both a printable binder template and presentation for you to introduce all of your classroom routines!
While prize boxes, desk pets, and incentives are fun... nothing can replace the community you build with your students. A classroom community built on respect, love for learning, and clear expectations should be the number one priority! Your students will appreciate your effort, care, and desire for them to succeed!
CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT BUNDLE
You will get:
Routines and Procedures Binder and Presentation
Participation Management Sytem
Simple Classroom Rules
Simple Student Portfolio
Morning Meeting Slides
Data Binder
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