Classroom Management Philosophy

~ Amina Hashim~ Maintaining a good order classroom is very important right from the beginning of the school year. It is crucial to plan well the first few weeks to teach classroom routines and procedures first. Furthermore, when there is a structured flow in the classroom there will be fewer interruptions during instruction and the class will operate more smoothly. Here are my top classroom management techniques: 1. Create a positive classroom climate (student-centered learning) It is important to create a positive and an enjoyable learning environment that will foster active participation by all learners. Students should feel comfortable with the teacher, build trust, respectful relationship. Students need to know that you respect them and you expect them to do the same, making sure that they know that you are in charge (authoritative figure). The classroom will be a safe place for learning to occur, clear expectations and consequences for students. The physical classroom environment needs to be safe and comfortable; the seating arrangement as well. I will vary my teaching strategies to support the diverse learning styles. Actively listening to students and their concerns or questions is very important. 2. Set the right tone and rules right away I will make it clear from the first day of school of the classroom rules that everyone is expected to follow for the rest of the year. I will work with my students so we can come up with some major classroom rules together; having students contribute to the rules is significant. In this way students will feel important at maintaining an orderly classroom. An important rule to start with is for students not to speak when others are speaking, ask permission to speak by raising their hand. This will set a foundation for a respectful environment. 3. Clear expectations and consequences need to Communicated Being consistent providing clear and achievable directives, modeling expected appropriate behavior. Making sure that students understand and are clear with the behavior expectations; I will give immediate attention to behavior for instance giving feedback, periodic checkup and an appropriate corrective plan. For students to behave well and participate, students should not be frustrated with confusing assignment directions or procedures. Before starting instruction or giving directions; wait until class is in a complete silence mode to give directions. Use a signal like clapping or holding up your hand and say give me five this should alert students that you need their attention. This way I know that all students have heard it very clearly. It is important to be clear and brief working directions and will make sure that I do not introduce too many new concepts at once. Being consistent with what I say is also very important, students like to see consistency.

4. Establish an effective classroom routines and procedures Create time saving strategies, efficient routines for instances collecting assignments, papers, materials and supplies (homework bins, classwork bins); pencil sharpening should be done in the morning as they come in class. Routines and procedures are a key to a well behaved classroom, it will reduce interruptions during instruction and the class will run smoothly. There should be a list of routines and procedures on the board on the first day of the school, and a copy of the routine and the classroom schedule by the door. Each student should have a copy on the first day of school as well. For students who are having difficulty following the schedule and routines, have it on their desk and remind them to follow it till they get used to it. Explain to students the reasoning behind the routines and procedures, teacher should model and give students consequences for non-compliance; gave students practice. 5. A well-organized classroom It is important that there is enough supplies and keep all the supplies available at a specific location where students can get without disrupting other students. The classroom has to be neat and well organized in this way, will be setting a good example to the students. Seating chart can be changed every time a need arises, when the teacher notices a disruptive student. The classroom should be arranged in such a way that the teacher is able to observe all students at all times. Planning ahead on lessons and be prepared to deliver the lessons. It is important to impress students from the start, and show them that you are organized. 6. Build Positive teacher / student relationships It is important to treat each student with respect and kindness. Take notice of students who do well in class and praise them. Always be available for students at all times to help students; create a one on one interaction. Try to catch students being good and praise students for the good work and the effort that they make. Display students successful work in the classroom, so they feel appreciated for their hard work. 7. Learning all the students names from the start. Calling students by their names gives students and sense of well-being. Knowing students names gives the teacher control on situations in class; for example, Johnny, can you stop talking please and complete your work. Such a statement is much more effective.

8. Being firm yet consistent It is imperative that a teacher be firm yet supportive and fair with students when enforcing rules and promoting a positive behavior. Good behavior should be rewarded and violated rules should result in suitable agreed consequences; students

need to be very clear on that. This way the teacher creates an environment where students feel safe and secured in their classroom. When the teacher is firm in the beginning, it makes it easier later on in the year. 9. Managing disruptive behavior in class As for minor disruption, it is important that it is handled in a positive way, respond immediately and watch for reoccurrences. Ensure clarity in understanding of the consequences of their actions and encourage student accountability. The teacher should be able to know limitations in dealing with unique situation which would need a principal, counselor, nurse or parental involvement. Teacher should monitor and be aware of off-task behavior, plan and monitor meaningful activities and make smooth transitions from one lesson / activity to another. This will deal with the minor disruptive behaviors without interruptions in the regular classroom routines. 10. Make eye contact with students, use their names, ask students to raise their hands for permission to speak. The teacher should smile and use appropriate humor at times; kids sometimes need a good laugh. Help and inspire students see that learning is important in their lives. The teacher should enjoy students enthusiasm and their sense of curiosity. Conclusion Good classroom management approaches and well-structured lessons create a classroom environment that frees a teacher to teach a student to learn. When students feel cared for, safe and have motivating, fun activities to do they will remain on task and learn. I believe getting off to a good start is the key to success.