Good discipline begins with students having a clear understanding of behavior expectations. Effective teachers take time to directly teach the behaviors they expect -- from pencil sharpening to working in small groups. Modeling regarding what is acceptable and what is not leaves students with a clear understanding of classroom rules. Reteaching is done as necessary. The goal, of course, is to create self-disciplined students, and all efforts should be directed toward creating these. In the meantime, it is reasonable for students to be told the what and why of expected behavior.
Teachers who run smoothly operating classrooms engage students from the moment they walk in until the moment they leave. This requires thoughtful and thorough planning. By beginning each class with an activity that gets students busy as soon as they enter the room, the expectations of the learning environment are set. The lessons that follow have clear purposes and allow for active participation from the students. Teachers can minimize misbehavior by providing activities for children who finish assigned work early.
A typical classroom is filled with children with diverse learning needs. Teachers who know how to differentiate to meet these needs have fewer discipline problems. Differentiation requires teachers to vary the processes by which students acquire concepts, endeavoring to meet individual students' learning styles and interests. In addition, the products students create to demonstrate knowledge are tailored to address needs and strengths. A differentiated classroom ensures that each child is met with enough challenge to keep him engaged without becoming overly frustrated, thereby eliminating two important causes of misbehavior.
Even a well-prepared teacher with proactive behaviors in a completely differentiated classroom will encounter students who simply refuse to cooperate or desire to test the classroom rules. When this happens, it is essential to remain calm and maintain consistent rules and consequences. Children who continue to misbehave may need further assistance in learning acceptable behavior. Behavior management programs, counseling, or a behavior contract may be necessary. At this point, it is advisable to get support people such as school counselors or psychologists involved.