10 Commandments of Classroom Management
Inside the Lion's Den: A Survival Guide for New Teachers
Teaching - one of the world's most rewarding and challenging professions. As a teacher with about twenty years of experience, I've had my fair share of joys, tears, and, of course, classroom challenges. The heart of many of these challenges? Classroom management and discipline. So, to all the educators who are still in their early years, take a seat, grab a cup of coffee, and let me share my top ten tips on preventing problems with classroom management.
1. Building Bridges: The Importance of Knowing Your Students
Getting to know your students is the bedrock of effective classroom management. Learning their names as soon as possible is a vital first step. When a student realizes you've remembered their name, it sends a strong message: I see you, I acknowledge you, and you matter. It can also be a useful tool in managing disruptions - a swift, "Ethan, could you lower your voice?" can nip potential problems in the bud.
Take those precious moments before and after class to engage your students in conversation. Learn their likes, dislikes, and interests. Remember, it's not enough to just speak to them - listening is key. Be receptive to their views and concerns. You'd be surprised how much these exchanges can inspire your lesson plans. Trust me, students can tell when you genuinely care, and they respond positively to that sincerity.
2. Earning Respect: The Journey to Credibility
Students respect knowledge and honesty. You can't merely command respect because you're older or because you're their teacher - you must earn it. This starts with knowing your subject matter and teaching materials thoroughly. Yet, remember to admit when you don't know something. An authentic "I don't know, let's find out together," can do wonders for your credibility.
3. Master of the Room: Harnessing Your Presence
Your classroom presence goes beyond your physical existence. It encompasses your body language, facial expressions, and voice. While we often focus on lesson content and student discipline, students are always watching us. Our body language sends them signals that can impact their perceptions and behaviors.
Project confidence, enthusiasm, and energy through your posture and gestures. Even if you're not feeling particularly confident, 'fake it till you make it.' It's not about deceit, but about using our body language and voice as tools to promote a conducive learning environment. With time, this projected confidence will become a part of you.
4. Taming Transitions: Managing Task Shifts
Trouble often brews during transitions between tasks. Minimize this window by reducing transition time. Distribute materials while students are engaged in a task. Bundle multiple worksheets into a single handout whenever possible. Make students' movements swift and purposeful with clear instructions and time limits. Remember, an occupied student is less likely to be a disruptive student.
5. Engage, Engage, Engage!
A surefire way to prevent classroom problems is to make your classes engaging. Focus on topics that matter to your students - things that scare them, intrigue them, or pull at their heartstrings. Use resources like social media to get insights into what captures their interest. Making lessons relevant and relatable goes a long way in fostering a harmonious classroom environment.
6. Winning Parents: The Art of Positive Reinforcement
Early on, reach out to the parents of students who might present challenges. Wait for these students to do something praiseworthy and acknowledge it, not just to the student but to their parents as well. This approach builds goodwill with both student and parents, encouraging more positive behavior and making any future disciplinary conversations easier.
7. Leader of the Pack: The Power of the Ringleader
Every class has a 'ringleader' - a student who can influence the class mood for better or worse. Build a positive relationship with this student. Authentic praise and encouragement can turn potential troublemakers into allies, greatly improving the classroom atmosphere.
8. All Work and No Play? Not Here!
Incorporate games and music-related activities into your lessons. These provide a fun yet effective way to learn. Explain the pedagogical function of these activities to your students. Once they understand the purpose, they'll appreciate these activities even more.
9. Teacher-Talk: Knowing When to Speak Less
An effective teacher knows when to talk less and listen more. Before class, rehearse your instructions for activities to ensure clarity and conciseness. Encourage students to repeat the instructions to confirm understanding. The more they participate and engage, the less likely they are to cause disruptions.
10. Self-Care: Your Well-being Matters
Your behavior and wellbeing set the tone in the classroom. Your energy is contagious - if you're excited and engaged, your students will be too. Conversely, if you're unwell or stressed, your students are likely to pick up on that. Prioritize your health and well-being because a healthy, happy teacher leads to a healthy, happy classroom.
Classroom management is an ongoing journey. These ten tips are not magic solutions, but they have proven immensely helpful in my two-decade-long career. Each class and each student is unique, and you will likely discover your own set of effective strategies. So here's to a fruitful teaching career, filled with growth, discovery, and the joy of shaping young minds! Enjoy!
