Control the classroom environment in a way that minimizes visual and auditory distractions. Don't put too many distracting posters on the walls, especially near the front of the classroom where the majority of instruction takes place. Muffle noise by using a plush carpet on the floor. Keep the chalkboard or whiteboard clean, and keep the room uncluttered. Post a sign on the outside of your door when you are teaching a lesson that states you do not want disrupted.
Make a seating chart. Organize students so that they are seated facing the front of the room, and separate students who tend to distract each other to minimize off-task talking. Place students who are easily distracted at the front of the class or near the teacher's desk, and away from doors and windows.
Set limits on the use of technological devices in class. Limit the use of cellular phones and laptop computers to times when you can monitor your students; many students are tempted to play games or surf the Internet when they should be taking notes and paying attention in class. On the other hand, consider allowing your students to use portable audio devices such as MP3 players and cellular phones when they are completing individual tasks.
Make your lessons interesting and engaging. Pace your lessons so that they are slow enough enough for students to understand the material, but fast enough so that students do not get bored. Students who are engaged in the material are less likely to welcome distraction. Consider building short breaks into your lessons.