Whether you’re a newbie teacher fresh out of college or a seasoned educator with years of experience, effective classroom management remains an essential key to your success. The following are the strategies that I have used in my own classroom over the last 20 years. These are practical tips and procedures that you can use to help your classroom thrive. So, let’s dive right in to classroom management strategies and procedures that will help lead your class to success!
The Power of Routines
You’ve probably heard it a million times, but I’m going to say it again: “Consistent Routines are your best friend”. Establishing consistent routines and systems can set the tone for a successful school year and teaching environment. Here’s how I like to start my class:
Bell Ringer Activities
Start your day with a bell ringer activity. This activity should be aligned with your subject matter and the skills you plan to teach that week. Bell ringers help to engage students as soon as they enter the classroom, and they set the tone for the rest of the instructional period.
Materials Preparation
Before starting your lesson, make sure your students have their materials ready. This means making sure that they have their pencils sharpened, ink pens are available, or any other necessary supplies are at hand. Having these materials prepared saves valuable instructional time.
Activate Prior Knowledge
Make activating your students’ prior knowledge a part of your classroom management strategies and procedures. By activating their prior knowledge you will create a bridge between what they already know and what they are about to learn. You can do this in a variety of ways. Some them include:
*Using Real-World events
*Brainstorming
*Making predictions
*Gallery Walks
*Concept or Word Sorts
*K-W-L charts
Communicate Objectives Clearly
Once your class is settled and prepared, it’s crucial to communicate the day’s objectives clearly. Let your students know what they will be learning and what is expected of them during the lesson.
Constantly Check for Understanding
As you teach, maintain an ongoing dialogue with your students. Continuously check for comprehension and understanding by asking questions and involving them in discussions. Here’s a veteran teacher tip: avoid calling on the same students repeatedly. Be sure to mix it up. You can go the old fashion way and use popsicle sticks or you can use technology to help you rotate the students you call on. This will help to keep everyone engaged.
The Power of Proximity
Don’t underestimate the importance of your physical presence in the classroom. Proximity to your students can make a significant difference in managing your class effectively. Here’s how to use it to your advantage:
Walk Around
Make it a habit to walk around the classroom while teaching. This not only allows you to monitor student activities, but it also helps prevent potential issues from escalating.
Visibility Matters
Ensure that your students always know you are present and observing. Your visibility helps deter disruptive behavior. My students often thought I had eyes in the back of my head. However, most of the time, it was sheer peripheral vision and prudent planning.
Surprise Engagement
Occasionally, surprise your students by calling on them unexpectedly. This keeps them on their toes. Why? Because they never know when you might ask a question.
Building Strong Relationships
Classroom management isn’t just about rules and routines. It’s also about the relationships you build with your students and their parents. Here’s how to foster these connections:
Engage Parents
Involve parents in the educational journey. Send introductory emails, texts, or letters during the summer to introduce yourself and convey your dedication to their child’s education. And, make a point of contacting your parents on a regular basis. This should not be just to report bad news. You should call or text with positive comments too.
Clarify Expectations
On the first day of school, clearly explain your classroom rules and expectations. Create a poster or make a list. Have these expectations visible in your classroom and send them home to parents in a newsletter or welcome letter to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Show the Immediate Impact
Help students understand how your class directly impacts their lives. Connect your teachings to real-life scenarios. And, be sure to help them understand the immediate benefits of what you are teaching. So, don’t just talk about the distant future outcomes.
Encourage Ownership
Encourage your students to take ownership of their learning. Involve them in rule-making. Allow them to help create the classroom expectations. This will give them a sense of responsibility.
Classroom management is a multifaceted skill that requires a combination of routines, clear communication, proximity, and relationship-building. By implementing these classroom management strategies and procedures, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of effective classroom management.
Happy Teaching!!!
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