Introduction to Teaching

Classroom Management Strategies

 

You will set the tone for your class right away—your voice tone, body language, choice of language will let students know that you are in charge. You will be walking a fine line here. You'll want to give the students the security of knowing that you are in control of the class, yet you also want a cooperative, adult environment.

 

Here are tips from experienced teachers who have been successful in creating a mutually beneficial classroom:

 

Write your name, the course name and number on the board. Students will feel confident that they are in the right room. Or, if they are in the wrong room they can gracefully leave.

 

Make sure that your voice carries or that you are using the microphone to your advantage. Practice speaking with authority in a pleasant way. When you use the microphone, remember that it is always on, even when you speak privately to a student (or go to the restroom!). You can use the mute button to temporarily shut off the broadcast, but the mute button does not turn off the power and will drain the battery.

 

Learn a few key phrases for gaining your students' attention. At the beginning of class and after break-out sessions, you'll need to bring focus back to the front of the room and it can be daunting to regain control. Some effective examples of phrases are:

 

  • "Class. Let's come together now."
  • "Can I have your attention up here now."
  • "Thank you, now let's move on."

 

Take a few minutes to review campus and class policies with your students regarding academic honesty, use of the Internet and technology, breaks, where the bathrooms are, food and drink policies in the classroom, turning off cell phones and pagers, etc.


Review safety precautions and emergency procedures. Let students know what to do during earthquake, fire, evacuations and other emergencies. Make note of exits. Inform students to stay together and move quickly and quietly to the campus emergency assembly areas. Be sure to take your roll book. Each campus will have a set of procedures to follow in emergencies. Be sure you are thoroughly familiar with your responsibilities during an emergency.

 

Finally, feel free to approach an experienced teacher and ask if you can sit in on her or his class. If they say yes, you will benefit from their comments and actions as they run their class. Most of us have learned by modeling other teachers and it can be very helpful to see a good teacher in action.