Lesson 1: Proactive Mentality

Many teachers pay a tax—in the form of lost learning time—when they have to address unmet expectations. The best way to limit the impact of this “misbehavior tax” is through proactive classroom management moves.

Lesson 2: Establishing Expectations

Before students set foot in your classroom on day one, you need to make some important decisions about the expectations you will communicate and enforce. This lesson provides practical guidance for setting, communicating and reestablishing student expectations.

Lesson 3: Giving Clear Directions

Sometimes the root cause of misbehavior is really just miscommunication. If students aren’t clear on what their teacher wants, who can blame them for making suboptimal choices? By giving clear directions teachers can reduce disruptions, save time, and keep the focus on learning.

Lesson 4: Four Types of Teacher Presence

While you may not be able to describe it, you know it when you see it: a strong, positive teacher presence that fills the room and conveys both warmth and high expectations. But it isn’t magic, and you can improve your own classroom presence by making intentional choices about your voice, body language, movement and gaze.

Lesson 5: Scanning and Circulating

If students don’t feel noticed by their teacher, their decision-making can start to deteriorate. Maintain focus, accountability, and a positive learning environment by being strategic about how you look and move around your classroom.