No matter what class you’ve got this year - whether they’re from hell, heaven, too big, too small or just right - there’s one curse that can fall upon you: low-level disruption.
But all teachers wield the power to vanquish it forever, if only they use the correct means, according to teacher Omar Akbar.
Be aware of your ‘vibe’
Your room is your space. Move around and throw a couple of curveballs: take the register from the back of the room, conduct assessment from the far side. It signals that you’re the authority, and that your rules must be followed.
Use your voice
Avoid speaking in monotone. Adjust the tone and volume of your voice, depending on what you want to achieve: a stern warning should be noticeably different to praise.
Keep up the pace
Keep them busy and they won’t have any time to chat. If the class is watching a video clip, use this time to hand out your worksheets. If they need to stick the worksheet into their books, make sure the glue sticks are handed out at the beginning of the lesson.
Use your school systems
In many classes, there are about three kids who can swing the class in the wrong direction. Sanction them according to your school policy and make a point of ringing home.
