Classroom Management Series #1: Defining some terms

We are starting a series on classroom management, where every Wednesday we will address behavioral problems that typical classrooms have. 

Before we get into this week’s topic, we need to talk about a few things.  What does classroom management mean?  What are these solutions?  How can I implement them into my own classroom?

Let’s start with defining a few things. Classroom management means

1.    The process of making certain that lessons run smoothly despite disruptive behavior by students.

2.    The prevention of disruptive behavior.

Well, what is disruptive behavior then?  Disruptive behavior is students actions that get in the way the ability of teachers to teach and students to learn. 

What are some examples of disruptive behavior?

• Talking when the teacher or others are talking
• texting or playing on their cell phones
• Using profanity
• Entering class late or leaving early
• Eating in the classroom 
• Calling out
• Constant entering and leaving the classroom (students going to the bathroom, students getting drinks of water)
• Getting out of their seat frequently with or without permission
• Disruptive noises
• Verbally harassment of others (name calling, mimicking, taunting)
• Physical harassment of others (poking, pinching, punching, kicking, stealing

Our solutions (yes, remember you are offering tips as well) will be complied into two lists.  The lists will be divided up as preventive solutions and responsive solutions. 

Preventive solutions are solutions to put into place before students do the behavior.  
Such as have the classroom rules and consequences displayed. 

Responsive solutions are solutions to stop the behavior immediately. 

Such as moving the student who is talking away from the rest of the class. 

The last thing you need to know is that you must experiment.  What works for one teacher, class, or student doesn’t work for everyone.  Pick one or two solutions and use them for a week. 

In order for this to be most successful, you should explain your expectations to your students beforehand, provide good and bad examples, post your expectations or rules in the classroom for all students to see, and be consistent.  

Now, don’t forget to check back EVERY Wednesday for solutions and to answer the next week’s question!  

Leave any solution tips you have for tomorrow's question:  What do you do about students who talk when others are talking?