Create classroom rules with your students. Keep the list short. Rules can include respecting others, listening attentively and completing work. Post the rules where students can see them. Discuss consequences for breaking the rules, allowing students to have input. This gives them a sense of ownership in how their classroom operates. Establish clear expectations with students and develop routines. Students need to know what is expected of them. Be firm and consistent.
Develop rapport with your students. Get to know them by asking about areas such as their families, hobbies and favorite things. Take a genuine interest in their lives. Share information about yourself. Students might be very interested to learn about your life outside of school. Let students see you outside the classroom setting. For example, coach a team or host a club. Recognize students' achievements, big or small. Congratulate them on a well-written report, and praise them for trying something new.
Plan engaging lessons to hold your students' attention. Be aware of how long you are talking, expecting them to sit still and listen. Allow for movement by planning activities that require students to leave their desks. Hands-on tasks capture their interest. Keep students busy, and have something for them to do when they complete their work. Plan transitions carefully so students move smoothly from one task to the next.
Respond to misbehavior by using a continuum of the least to most intrusive techniques. Begin with strategies such as looking at students, moving closer to them or saying their names. These techniques are effective with behaviors such as speaking out of turn, leaving their desks or losing focus. More intrusive responses are necessary for serious or repeated misbehavior. Use strategies such as calling parents and involving the principal.