Teachers: Manage Your Classroom Effectively from Day One

Nearly half of the new teachers in the United States quit teaching within the first five years, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. These educators are often discouraged or overwhelmed. Although reasons vary, they typically find out that it isn't easy to control and teach a room full of students every day, all year long.

"Contrary to what many people believe, the number-one problem in the classroom is not discipline," says longtime teacher and successful author, Harry Wong. "It is the lack of procedures and routines." Wong and his wife and co-author, Rosemary, believe behavior is rarely a problem when effective teaching is taking place. As a teacher who has prescribed to their methods, I agree with them wholeheartedly.

If you are a beginning teacher -- or perhaps one of the 50 percent on the brink of quitting -- consider incorporating Harry Wong's techniques from day one, and you will undoubtedly experience a good degree of success. Revise and hone your techniques each year.

Qualities of Effective Teachers

Every teacher strives to be effective in the classroom. According to the Wongs, successful teachers believe that all students can and will show positive growth. Teachers who flourish have the ability to manage a classroom effectively. They know how to design a lesson so it will lead the students to mastery of the concept. Successful teachers have the desire to learn all they can about new methods and ideas in their profession.

Principles of Successful Classroom Management

Successful classroom management can make or break a teacher. Class management involves organizing students, space, time and materials so that learning can take place. In the best case scenario, students are involved and cooperating in all activities. The teacher creates a productive working environment.

Characteristics of a Well-Managed Classroom

In a well-run classroom, students know what is expected of them -- they are involved and they thrive. In a well-managed classroom, you will see very little wasted time, interruptions or confusion. Students are working hard, yet the atmosphere is relaxed and pleasing.

Routines and Procedures

In order to be successful in the classroom, a teacher must explain, rehearse and reinforce routines and procedures consistently, particularly at the onset of the year. Certain procedures must be given much consideration: how to quiet the students, what to do when a student is absent, how students get help, movement of students and papers and transitions for the beginning and end of the period or day. Establishing these routines doesn't happen over night -- it takes weeks of modeling, practicing and re-teaching before habits are developed. If a teacher wants all students to stop and look at her when she raises her hand or rings a bell, she must take the time to model the behavior. Consider that students may be in groups or at the pencil sharpener when the request is made -- practice different scenarios with the students. Insist that all students adhere to the procedure before continuing. It's important that the teacher also model respect and good manners.

Starting on Day One

Be sure your classroom is ready ahead of time. Initiate your routines and procedures starting on the first day. Greet each student at the door. Assign seats on day one and arrange the classroom for minimal behavior problems. Walk among the students constantly. Tell them your name and your expectations for the year. Don't underestimate that first day: it sets the tone for the respect and cooperation you will have for the remainder of the year.

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Source: The Well-Managed Classroom; Harry Wong