When To Be Calm
You should be outwardly calm during…
Transitions
Transitions can be opportunities for students to misbehave. So it’s important your students see that you’re calm and in control. During transitions, position yourself in a highly visible area of the classroom and silently observe.
Procedures
Like transitions, your students need to be focused on completing procedures and routines quickly and correctly, so you can get on with the business of teaching. Again, stand in one place and calmly observe.
Independent Work
During this most critical learning time, resist the urge to interrupt your students—enthusiastically or otherwise. Your job is to fade into the background, keeping the classroom peaceful and conducive to concentration.
Entering & Leaving The Classroom
A high percentage of misbehavior occurs on the way in or on the way out of the classroom. So refrain from shuffling papers, talking to students, or making announcements. Instead, observe silently and be ready to enforce your rules with a consequence.
Misbehavior
When students misbehave, enforce your classroom rules dispassionately. This keeps you from losing your cool and ensures that the burden of responsibility remains with them.
