Eye rolls, deep sighs, melodramatic body language . . . They’re responses to teacher requests or reminders (i.e. “Please put your backpack away.”) that aren’t quite disrespectful. But darn close. Sometimes they’re accompanied by a sarcastic “Sorry!” or “Oh my gosh!” They’re delivered indirectly … Read more
“Why do we have to raise our hand?” “Why can’t we talk while we’re working?” “Why do we have to walk in line?” The questions may be different, but they’re all meant to challenge your methods. They’re meant to challenge your decisions, your motives, … Read more
Recently, I received an email from a teacher who was yelled at by a student. Her class had been in the middle of a learning game, and everything was going smoothly. Or so she thought. The students were playing by the rules. They were … Read more
A reader emailed SCM last week wondering how to handle six students who were wreaking havoc in his classroom. Every day they were disruptive. They were talkative and silly. They called out during lessons and made inappropriate comments. They played off one another and … Read more
There is nothing wrong with a class clown. In fact, students gifted with a clever sense of humor can be a wonderful asset to your classroom. They can be another ingredient in the mix that helps you create a learning environment students love being … Read more
Have you ever noticed that some teachers don’t have to work as hard at classroom management? Certain teachers can walk into a classroom, and almost magically, the students become calmer, more mature, and more receptive in their presence. These teachers may use the same … Read more