So you’re cruising along having a good day and a student pokes you with a stick. “What you said isn’t true.” “Shelby didn’t deserve a consequence.” “My old teacher did it this way.“ Statements like these, spoken with attitude, are meant to goad you … Read more
While observing your class gather materials for a science experiment, you notice a student kicking the heels of the boy in front of them. But because you’re in the good habit of letting misbehavior play out, you decide to watch a bit longer before … Read more
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
It’s a common refrain. “With a student like Erik, you have to pick your battles.” “In my class this year, I’ve got to pick my battles.” “The best advice I could offer would be to . . . pick your battles.” The idea behind … Read more
Let’s begin this week’s article by looking at a common scenario. You’re leading your students to class after visiting the library one day, and you notice Andrew kicking the heels of the student in front of him. He is clearly doing it on purpose. … Read more