Brandon's Brainwork-Classroom Management

Classroom Management

Classroom management is one of those things that every teacher can improve on.  One of the best books on classroom management is Harry Wong's The First Days of School.  If this book is not in your professional library, it should be!  Harry Wong defines classroom management as "all the things that a teacher does to organize students, space, time, and materials so learning can take place".  Each person handles classroom management in their own unique way, but there are a couple characteristics that define a well managed classroom.  According to Wong, they are:

• Students are deeply involved in their work.
• Students know what is expected of them.
• There is relatively little wasted time.
• The climate of the classroom is work-oriented but also relaxed.

A couple strategies Wong gives for classroom management are:

• Start the class with an assignment, not roll.
• Post your assignments in the same place and manner every day.
• Permanently display your classroom rules and expectation.
• Have procedures for everything!  Teach and practice the procedures.
• Dismissal at the end of class
• When students are absent
• For quieting the class
• Handing in papers
• Starting the class
• Be over-prepared! 

Reflection Questions

1. Are you over-prepared every day?

2. Do you have consistent procedures for everything in your classroom?

3. Did you, or have you, practiced the procedures?

4. What part of classroom management am I strong in?  What can I share with a colleague that would help them with classroom management?

5. What area of classroom management am I weak in?

Resources

Harry Wong- The First Days of School & Professional Reference

Pinterest Classroom Management Ideas