Chapter 1: Page 8

DO WE REALLY NEED ANOTHER CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT BOOK?

Let's face facts! For years we've had classroom management books that emphasize what teachers should or shouldn't do. But there are not enough books that emphasize to the same degree what unruly students should or shouldn't do to correct poor student behavior. Ladies and Gentlemen, I think it's time to stop treating classroom management as if it's a sub-topic of Alcoholics Anonymous and therefore, requiring that a teacher go through a twelve step program every time he/she attempts to resolve a behavior problem with a disruptive student. I say we're overdue to find new ways to think about old strategies that will result in shifting more responsibility onto unruly students to correct unruly behavior, or better still, not display unruly behavior in the first place. 

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Chapter 2:  Page 21

Excerpt from the skit; "Please!"

*Characters: Ms. Johnson & students in a classroom*

Ms. Johnson

   I can't even turn my back for one minute to write on the board without you acting like I'm not even in the room! It just doesn't make sense! Now, would you PLEEEASE answer one question for me! I just want to know, how many of you went to church last Sunday??

(Several students, including students who displayed out of control behavior, slowly raise their hands.)

Ms. Johnson

   That's what I thought! Now, if the preacher didn't have to tell you to be quiet when he...or she was PREACHING, PLEEEASE tell me why I have to tell you to be quiet when I'm TEACHING! 

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Chapter 6:  Page 92

A Class Session In Progress

If inappropriate behavior continues decide if it's necessary to speak to the student or students involved.  Remember to remain calm and not raise your voice.  It's the responsibility of students to hear you.  Pick up the Discipline Chart and, if possible, document students in order of worst to least culprit. Students will usually settle down as they observe you documenting behavior. If a disruptive student or students display anger by yelling out or talking loud, look directly at the student or students and say, "Are you blurting out?" or "Are you talking without my permission?" Remenber to respond as much as possible with comments that referencse the behavior. Then, as quickly as possible, direct all students back to completing assigned work.

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