Teach English in Malan Zhen - Taiyuan Shi

Classroom management begins the moment a teacher begins lesson planning. This is why most educators have a “Plan A” through Plan Z running in their heads. This is not only to ensure student understanding, but also to gauge behaviors and engagement level. The ultimate goal of classroom management is to create an environment for learning (Vreeland and Ancess). While it seems that this task is monumental there are specific strategies that teachers can employ in order to maximize their time and efforts. One technique suggested by the New Teacher Survival Guide is to maximize your planning and plan to the minute (Vreeland and Ancess). This is also emphasized by Doug Lemov’s Teach Like Champion 2.0, which showcases techniques such as the double plan. This technique allows teachers to check for understanding in student activities, thus maximizing time and effort (Lemov, 2015 p. 150-151). Routines are critical in the development of management. Adults and children respond better to routines with guided instruction. A suggestion is to begin your course with development of routines and expectations. As a classroom teacher in a middle school, this is a time saver and it also sets the standards high for the rest of the course. In my own personal classroom, I usually begin the day with independent and total group instruction or review. Students are set on a gradual release using the model “I/We/You” as described by Lemov (Lemov, 2015, p. 158-159). These routines are critical in maintaining classroom dynamics and expectations of students. This establishment of routines is powerful because students are able to regulate themselves and one another. Another factor to consider into this is simply time. Students are obsessed with time. In some cultures and places lessons that seem to have no point are ignored. A simple tool that has helped manage both my students and myself is a simple timer. This creates accountability for students and the teacher. It also is a simple way to help class pass in an effective and respectful way of both students and the teacher in the classroom. In some cases it is appropriate to create a friendly competition between the students or classes (Vreeland and Ancess). Competition is a double edged sword, as a result educators should be prepared to deal with surprises as a result of competition in the classroom. When teaching it is important to use a variety of techniques to ensure understanding and engagement. This is true with all learners, however, boredom or disinterest is the enemy in the classroom and often leads to difficulties in the classroom. In my current teaching practice there are three levels I use to try to engage student: in-text questions, graphic organizers, and Pictionary (related to the topic of the lesson) game. During notes, I will again model and show students how to find answers to their in-text questions. After modeling the first question, I will be circulating and taking time to narrate praise to specific students who are completing their assignments well (Vreeland and Ancess). This time will also be a great time to spot students who may begin to act out. Doing this quick survey allows the teacher time to assess the room and adapt and implement specific actions where needed. As students' progress into the application phase of the lesson, Pictionary will come into play. Visuals, especially when created by students themselves are powerful tools for learning. This also allows for students to be creative and engage their own interests in the topic. While this is a bit of a gamble in the classroom, it makes the experience “real” for students. The “real factor” can increase the potency of any lesson and is a powerful classroom management tool. Building the management “toolbox” is a critical for educators at all levels. The use of a double plan is efficient and it places educators in the mindset of students. Often if we simply walk a mile in their shoes, it is easier to understand where they are coming from. In many cases it does not change the behaviors of individual students immediately. Setting standards and routines will help regulate students of all levels. If behaviors escalate, it is important to always treat students with respect and see from their viewpoint. If we are to change and flip the mindset of school for our most difficult students, we also must be prepared to change the dynamic. References Lemov, D. (2015). Teach like a champion 2.0: 62 techniques that put students on the path to college. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Vreeland, L., & Ancess, J. (n.d.). New Teacher Survival Guide: Classroom Management. Retrieved January 08, 2017, from https://www.teachingchannel.org/videos/new-teacher-classroom-management#