Hey Reynolds! I'm a 2nd year 8th grade history teacher, and I absolutely LOVE your videos! But I have to say, standing quietly works pretty well for me! If I'm giving instructions and kids are talking, I just stop mid-sentence and smile and (appear to) wait patiently. Most of my kids get annoyed with the talkers and tell them to "Shhh!" for me. It works like a charm! Anyway, thanks for your all of your awesome, uplifting videos!
Students' management doesn't require any of these fancy tricks, all you need to do is to give them a sound beating if they don't shut up. That was our daily bread on the ships when serving for the the British Navy. And that's how we taught the next generation, those idling scoundrels!!
When I stand idly, my students either ignore me or just get louder. One time I stood there for like 10 minutes, and then finally gave up and just walked around helping the kids who were trying to pay attention.
you probably dont give a shit but does anyone know a way to get back into an instagram account?? I was stupid lost the login password. I love any assistance you can give me
The red mystery square. When kids interrupt, lose focus and chatter increases; I draw one line of a what will hopefully (for them and me) not become a complete square. That's when consequences are applied. I never tell them what the consequences are, but when we get to that point (almost never), I reserve the right to dole out any punishment (I'm very reasonable and fair) I choose for any student. They see that first red line and the majority of the class begins the shhhh! pressure. Repetition and consistency are so key. Thanks for helpful insights!
‘Who you are, should dictate how your classroom runs’......... oh my goodness, you have no idea how much that one sentence resonates with me. I am starting my first year of teaching in January (in Australia), and I’ve had a wide variety of people telling me how it should be done. Some tips (like many of yours) have inspired me to reflect on my future classroom and the way I want it to be. Others make me question my ability to teach at all, because I know I won’t do it the way they say it ‘should’ be done. I am 40 years old (and yes, only just beginning my teaching journey!) and who I am at my core is NOT the same as the teacher next door, or across the hall. We aren’t the same and our classrooms won’t be the same, and now (thanks to you!) I realise that that is OK. So thank you, for all that you do.
Nic Utting I'm in the same boat as you. Just got done student teaching and will have my own classroom in January. And I know exactly how you feel! I am wading through all the tips and advice to find what works for me.
Nic that's awesome!! You are also going to find out that starting out as a teacher at 40 has all kinds of perks. You have all of that experience to back up what you teach. It's going to be the best!
I will be almost 40 when I start teaching in America, so don't let age bother you. People tell me that too and its hard because I have been in school so long.
I do teacher vs students and when the majority of students come into the classroom loud and not in control of their selves I receive a point. When they are working good and on task and quiet they receive a point. At the end of the week if I have the most points we continue with our daily routine but if they have the most they get 15 extra minutes of recess. I also do talk time for the last 10 minutes of the day if students don't individually lose points they can talk and sit with their buddy if not they have to write for 10 minutes about why didn't receive talk time and what they will do to correct this behavior.
My go to is always singing... Maybe an, 'I Wiiiiissshhhh I could direct you! But you refuse to listen up..." to the tune of Aint too Proud by the temptations! No matter what, I get a reaction and within 5-10 second the attention is on me so that I may teach! :) And it is fun!
I am so serious at class, in order to make them listen and pay attention, and that works for me and they understand well. But they told the vice principal that they don't like this serious thing even if they understand well. So I tried to be little bit funny but they laughed and lost their whole attention and the class became a mess . Now I am continuing my serious way and I don't care about their opinion.
I have a big stop-watch and lift it up whenever I want them to be quiet. The class has a total of 60 seconds during a lesson. Everything that goes over the 60 seconds we add to the end of class and they have to sit absolutely still during that time. It works pretty well
I simply use a bellringer! Everyday the kids walk in, look at the board, and know what they need to do right then and there. This took a bit of training to get the kids in this routine, but it's made my life a bit easier and has given me the opportunity to stop and take attendance or take care of something that might need taken care of right at the beginning of class. I'd love to see tips for closure in a lesson!
We call it an “entry task” here, but same thing! I got this idea from a co-worker who teaches geometry-an “exit task.” I don’t use an exit task every day, but I always have one prepared in case I need it. Once in a while if class has gone super smoothly I’ll play a video (song) they like or I play a dance song and we end class with a dance party!
Dude I have so many of your videos saved in my "watch later" file. I've already seen them but it's my way of saving them to refresh my memory of classroom tips. #rolemodel
Classroom management comes with procedures! Kids need something to do the moment they walk into the room after you greet them. I call the first task of the day a “do now” because they are supposed to do it now. Other teachers call it a bell ringer or flash review. Usually it’s a short answer question from the previous days lesson.
I totally agree with snacks or another type of reward. I have elementary special ed kids so they respond well to hearing me compliment another kid "thank you for being ready to learn". "Thank you for getting started right away" "I love your hair today!". Having a routine helps too. Mid lesson, if the snacks and taking points aren't working, I've been known to look out the window and say "omg. Check out that dead bird flying! See, everyone looked bc you didn't listen to all of the words." "Yo, who's dog is that chilling across the street?" "Oh look so and so's mom is outside. Everyone wave. Aw man, you just missed her!" Definitely goes with your personality.
How did I just find you? Where have you been all my life?! This is pure gold! Found you super randomly and love your energy and video tips. I've been teaching for 7 years now and I am definitely not a conventional teacher so you're are a fabulous find! Thanks for being so authentic and invested in our youth. Keep up the amazing work. Back to bingeing your videos now! :)
Awesome so glad you fond the channel, welcome :) There is also a closed Facebook group for teachers if your interested. m.facebook.com/groups/566468247135630?ref=share
I am an "experienced" teacher and am looking forward to sharing your videos with my student teacher. I agree wholeheartedly that you have to find what works with your personality. I encourage my student teachers to try something. If it doesn't work for them, they just have not found the right fit. It will come. I cue behavior through routines and music (lowering volume to cue a transition). The waiting for quiet works for me, but it is only because I have built relationships. If I stand silently at the front of my room (a rare spot for me) they all look and listen quick. I rarely raise my voice above the normal projection range. I feel yelling is the WORST way to get what you want. I know you mentioned this in another video, but greeting them at the door really helps them focus as well. P.S. 24+ years and still loving it!
actually yeah I was an after school tutor and it was easier to build a rapport with the students and get them to be respectful, but been the new sub at a new school everyday makes it a lot more difficult. can't wait to teach full-time.
I start speaking to my class with a Russian accent and pretending I am from Siberia. (in my thick accent voice) "Class, I am Ms. Stepanov, and today vee are goink to skeeep count by trees to get to 99. So, get out your toes if you have any left and lets go. I don't have toes because the froze off when I was digging in the snow to find potatoes with my Poppi. So lets go, tree, seeks, nine, tvelve......" Works every darn time. Even in high school. You just have to be careful that when you say a word with the accent you are not accidentally swearing at the class. lol. Really happened.
I do the countdown thing, but every time I get to a number with an "R" I roll the R excessively and they're usually so impressed they stop what they're doing and try to copy me xD "Fourrrrrrr, THRRRRRRRRREE" I'm an MS/HS music teacher of a 100% Chinese population of kids and there isn't much rolling in East Asian languages so most of them aren't used to it so they're like "Dang... You so talented..." xD
I'm a behaviour manager in a primary school, UK. I'd like to share a simple tool that helps me and my mates in school. I raise up my hand quietly, ensuring that each individual finger is shown. My students know that each finger worth 1 point. They always respond to it in such a positive way since they want to earn these 5 points really bad (it's 5 minutes extra break, or free laptop time). I love the fact that many of them encourage each other which transform the classroom's culture! I invite you to try that out! I bet you're all really going to benefit from it! :)
For me, I stand quiet in front of class. I talk, and a lot. So when I'm quiet and I have that “look” on my face, they know something is up. One thing I started doing in the hallway, is sing. We have a strict no hats policy and for those that chose to ignore our requests, I sang at them. Want me to stop? Take the hat off. It worked. I have learned to call the dissenters out by name - loudly in front of the class. I have had one student ask me why I disrespected him in front of the others. I asked him why he disrespected me in front of my students. Then I proceeded to tell him that if he didn't like it, don't to it to me. I have finally found my voice... your advice has helped!
I’m about to start teaching in September, and I absolutely love your channel. I bought your book for my birthday and finished it in 3 days! I am inspired and hope I can be a great teacher like you!
I am a substitute teacher, so I sometimes have to employ slightly different methods of getting a class's attention. Most of the time, simply standing in front of the classroom quietly works. I can tell with a classroom from the moment they walk in whether that tactic is going to work or not, and I always have a backup plan. In fact, I have multiple backup plans! I have answer buzzers that I got on Amazon (for about $10, I think). There are 4 of them, and I place them strategically around the room before the students come in for the day. If I need to get some attention from the class, and I can't get it otherwise, I will just press on whatever buzzer is closest to me. It makes a funny noise, and it captures the kids attention. I also have a harmonica. This is an excellent method because most kids have never really heard a harmonica. I make sure to play it really badly so that they don't want to hear it again. LOL I also bring a tambourine, although I will use that sparingly.
I absolutely love your videos! I’m a 2nd year middle school humanities teacher, and I like to start class with a 5-minute countdown video (before class starts) and a list of “what you need for today” on the screen (textbook, journal, laptop, a positive attitude, etc) :) students know they need to be in their seats when the time gets to zero or they’ll be marked tardy. It’s fun to see them dash around the room in the final seconds! When they are all talking, I’ve trained them to get quiet and put their hand in the air when they see me do the same. It takes around 10-15 seconds for them all to be quiet, and sometimes a few of them will run up for a quick high five 😂 I hope this might be helpful for someone out there!
They hand in the air idea is something I just learned from a friend. It works great! Just a heads up… We are putting on a back to school boot camp to help teachers start the year off right! The boot camp will focus on building relationships with students and classroom management. It’s a two night event on August 9&10 at 7:30 pm est. Here’s the link: reynolds.samcart.com/products/back-to-school-bootcamp
I'm an art teacher and call and response has always worked well for me. I got this from Cassie Stephens but shortened it. I say "Good morning Amazing Artists, and they are trained to say "Good morning, Amazing Art Teacher." Then we get going. For the older, too cool classes, I simply say "Good morning, Mrs/Mr. ______'s class!" and they say "Good morning, Mrs. Swartzendruber" Bonus. It helps them remember my name. If I need to get their attention in the middle of class I do a clap pattern and they repeat it or simply "give me five" To signal clean up time I shake a tambourine or a maraca. I guess the real key to all this is that I teach them all these every year.
Just started teaching 2d art, having a real hard time starting class. Lots of behavioral issues. I’ve raised my hand and stood their silently, I use a microphone, which does help, but man am I frustrated with getting kids on task. Like your vids!
Carl here's the secret... just keep trying stuff and don't be afraid of what the kids might think. If you do this, then one day something will just work and you will be amazed that things have changed. 😊
I give my kids a thirty second or one or two minute warning, (depending on what they are in the middle of) so they know that they need to find a stopping place, put materials away, and be prepared to listen for the next thing. I think it's more realistic and more respectful to give them a chance to switch gears, rather than expect and demand immediate silence. The exception is when they are first coming into the classroom. I expect them to come in silently, and get started on the bell ringer assignment without talking.
Haha , I’m all about the count down ! All of this is great advice and I think that when you are in a new environment kids don’t know why to expect or what your expectations are so of course they will try to see what they can get away with.
One thing that works for me.... I sit up at the front of the room and type onto the projector screen, "I love it when you get started without any reminder! Thank you: Jose Alan Gracie Miguel Lucero Vincent..... And just like what you said with the candy, only write up the names of students who got started without a reminder.
I’ve noticed that one tactic will work for about 9 weeks and then they lose interest. I try to change it up....currently giving out smiley face stickers. I thought 7th graders would think it was stupid, but I’m EXTREMELY stingy with the stickers, and now they are crazy for them. One student will get mad if everyone at their table gets one except them. Lol!!! They crack me up!
Loving these ideas...My thing is getting them as settled as possible BEFORE they even enter the room. I have them stand in two straight lines (boys and girls) and I usually greet them outside the room before letting them in. I also use the count down sometimes.
I know this is an older video from an older time, but you remind me so much of my 6th grade English teacher from like 20 years ago it's insane. 100% wouldn't have survived middle school without that guy. He was super big on building relationships with students on a level we could understand while still being a great teacher you couldn't help but respect. You really know what's up and I'm glad you're continuing to put stuff out there that other teachers can see.
One thing i do is I'll go to one group of students "focus in three. Pass it on" and then get them to tell the next group of students. It depends on the class, but when it works it works well. It gives students that time to prep to get ready to listen, and by getting the students to tell each other it can help class connections. Then after 3 minutes I'll call them back. Like I said, depends on the students, but if you've got a group of self driven, and motivated students it's worth a shot
I love to sing to them while changing the lyrics “put your homework in the bin” “tuck that shirt in or it’s a number” “we have a test so start to study” I usually do it in an operatic way. If anyone cringes I start to sing off key.
I usually greet people with "Greetings and salutations comrade" or "Howdy partner" so I'll probably use something to that effect with my students, as it comes naturally. It tends to make people laugh, too, which is a plus! I'm not sure what my teaching style is (I'm still a college kid, haha) but I would say my personality in general is just strange. I'm not a very consistent personality, and am an ever-evolving enigma even to myself most times. So maybe I'll be interesting enough to catch my students' attention. Your videos help tremendously for me, and allow me to see the career I'm trying to get into for what it is, rather than the imaginative and probably much too idealistic scenarios that run rampant in my head. Downfalls to being a dreamer, I suppose. I'll definitely use those traits to an advantage, though.
Just the thing I was looking for today! Having a bit of trouble with keeping classes on task and quiet that I am subbing for in an all boys high school. Not having much time to get to know students makes things so much harder! Going to keep trying out different strategies to see what works best so thanks for some tips I can use!
Thanks for the comment. Maybe try just moving around the room or sitting with a small group and helping them on their assignments. Don't feel like you have to win the whole class. You'll get there. 😊
I am linking my teaching mentee to ALL of your videos! I do countdowns and something like your point system for kids who do what they need to do automatically. For my toughest class, I like to do snacks too. I only use "I'll wait" if I get interrupted.
You sound fantastic!! Thanks for passing along the vids too!☺️ If i can ever help with anything or you think of a video that might help more mentees please let me know. Hope your year is the best!!☺️
My kids will do anything for an apple! I was surprised to learn this after I kept the leftover fruit from their breakfast. So now apples to the first three on their bellwork!
i’m a sophomore and i’m taking modern world history and what my teacher does is right when the bell rings he walks in, turns off the lights, and says kind of loud “good morning guys!” or something like that. he stands in the hall in between classes and the sound of the door shutting gets our attention and is the signal for us to find our seats and it works great!
I teach 4th grade, which is a bit different, but I have been finding that starting a class by standing and doing a clapping and stomping body rhythm together helps to get the class settled and focused. If I lose their focus, I count down from 5 and then we all do 2 claps together. That's their signal for quiet listening.
I find that if you have the respect of students there is not a problem getting their attention. It is about setting expectations, affirming those expectations and being consistent. Respect is something that is earned and not expected. Simple advise.
Taking your idea of the ridiculous greeting and combo with the silence thing- I start signing in ASL to a student who's being quiet, and everyone else goes "whoa, what the hell is this, what she saying?"
Oh man! I wish this was available for today's 9:30 am 6th grade class with 14 boys and 4 girls. "Good morning, pink fluffy unicorns" would have worked perfectly.
I teach 9-10th grade men's choir in China and I call my boys all sorts of embarassing things to get their attention. One time we combined with women's choir to perform for each other and out of habit I said "Alright sunflowers, let's sing!" and girls all paused and laughed and the boys turned bright red and I was like "......oh god I'm so sorry......" xD
I use the amazon bell. When they are talking I just hit the button and it always catches them off guard. I switch up the sounds and really have them confused. They're looking around wondering where the sound came from. ME: Now that I have your attention.
I’ll say.... all eyes on Mrs. D or give me 5. I will also say “Show me what a good listener looks like.” I do the count down too or I stand there and wait. I take minutes off recess if they won’t stop talking and I call it hassle time. They owe hassle time to me. Hassle time is paid with additional instruction time or at recess. By the way, I teach fourth grade.
Very good ideas! I am new to my school (not necessarily to teaching) and have found that getting my students to pay attention at the start of class has been more of a challenge at my new school. Thanks for the tips!
So glad this appeared in my 'recommended'. I'm really struggling with this right now. I'm a student teacher (I've just started!) and the school I'm teaching in is pretty tough -- the kids aren't really used to teachers sticking around for more than a semester because everyone who goes to teach there ends up quitting. So yeah, I'm struggling with this, but the only advice my in-school mentor could give me was 'work on your classroom presence' which she then followed by saying, 'but this is going to be hard for you because you're a petite young woman and you've got quite a soft voice'... so, yeah, I guess I'll just magically grow eight inches and develop a harrowing bellow overnight, shall I?? Real helpful.
Hi Emily! That advice is bullshit. Some of the best teachers I've ever know have been "petite young women" with quite voices. One of my favorite people in the world is my friend Sarah. she teaches across the hall from me. She is about 5 feet tall with red curly hair and she does not have a commanding voice. To look at her she does not look like she would she would survive at a school like mine. As it turns out she is hands down the most beloved teacher in our school. She does that by not backing down from any student, by constantly doing anything she can to help kids, and never giving up on anyone. If the kids know that you are truly there for them and you take the time to create relationships (even small ones) with every kid, you will win. Out care and out work everyone and you will absolutely crush it. I promise.
I am a substitute teacher and I carry a harmonica in my pocket. Sometimes, (last year) I used it to help calm down special-needs-students who had never met me. This year, I am substituting in the regular classes at high school. One class was unruly loud and wouldn't listen to me. I went around to 2 or 3 groups of students (they sat in groups), and I "threatened" to play my harmonica if they don't be quiet... and I promised I play badly. They smiled and the room quieted down within a minute. I didn't need to actually play the harmonica but I think the silly threat caught them off guard and it worked. I have found that being a LITTLE bit silly, or sometimes speaking loudly and firmly, shows the kids I am in charge, I respect them, and we are here to work.
A few more suggestions that might work for you: 1) start the day with a game they really like [Kahoot, Quizizz, Plickrs, etc.] (2) assign seats they don't particularly care for - beat the bell, you get to pick your own seat; 3) tape a playing card or some type of desk marker - students pick a random card from a stack of corresponding cards - then they need to find the corresponding seat.
Thanks for your video. The kids must love you. Great Personality!!! I will kind of in a sing-songie way say, "Uh-oh" and then smile at them. This really works well.
Actually, referring to your comment about being yourself in the classroom, I have learned 100% myself and it works for me. I'm a super silly person and so I'm just like that with my kids. During transitions and after school, my kids and I have a blast. I think they feel safe to come into my classroom to just talk to me, play instruments or hang out and sing together. I've worked really hard at building good relationships with them. I feel like during content and rehearsal time (I'm a music teacher) I am able to bring them back to focus, and when it comes to serious topics - I honestly feel like they take me more seriously them BECAUSE I'm so silly all the time. But sometimes, I wonder if I'm being too silly or if I'm just kidding myself into thinking that I have the best of both worlds when I really don't. I don't think I would be successful trying to be serious all the time (tried that in student teaching and it BACKFIRED) I'm still a pretty young teacher so I know I have a long way to go.... Any other silly teachers out there who think about this?
Once, I was trying to get my students' attention, so I wrote something on the board that said "When you see this, oink like a pig" and a couple of students were curious about what I was writing. The students who watched me write it on the board started oinking and showing their friends the board. This leaves students who are still talking confused about why everyone is oinking. Suddenly everyone catches on after seeing the board, and you now have their attention once the oinking dies down. You could do this with anything. "When you see this, pat your head and rub your belly" if you want one that is more silent. You could even make a game out of it, like the last person to start oinking/pat their head and rub their belly has to do 5 push ups or something.
I loudly say, “THANKS, everybody who’s already (doing x)!” It works well on everyone who’s awake. My school has a pandemic of sleepers. I think that problem is residual from online school; kids aren’t used to having to be awake all day anymore. I don’t have a positive way of dealing with that yet.
I just found your videos this morning. I teach high school English and am also an actress, so I use the strategy of acting out different roles with different accents. Just the other day, I acted like a witch and said, "Come, little children!" It was creepy, but some of them thought it was funny.
I do a combo approach - I figure it gets old doing the same thing every time. But I do have go-to signals that I teach at the beginning of the year when I go over classroom procedures. Count downs are easy because I can be anywhere in the room. But I have a few ridiculous noise makers and a really loud bike horn (which I like to save for sleeping students). I also like to call them ridiculous names, like dumplings and butter cups and treasures. I’m a rather sarcastic person so they find it funny when I call them sweet names. Ialso like to use Class Dojo - I always project their warm-up and instructions for the day when they walk in, and I can have my phone or iPad with the dojo app. If kids are reading the screen and following directions without my prompting, I will give the dojo points. They hear the bell that sounds when a point is added and the rest of them start scrambling so they can get points. Talk about Pavlov’s dogs! 😂
Real Rap With Reynolds I appreciate your videos so much! There aren’t a ton of secondary teachers doing the UA-cam thing, and it’s great to have a place to turn here for great ideas, collaboration and inspiration.
i needed to hear when you started talking at 8:30 its my 3rd day and I feel doubtful :( idk what to do when the students act reckless like standing on desks or something -_- i feel like im not doing a good job.. but when i see what some students write for class i get so inspired to keep on going. Im an ELAR teacher by the way.
Keep going Arielle! My guess is that some of their behavior comes from them not knowing you yet. As you build those relationships they will act less reckless.
I am a 5 foot 2 female and waiting quietly at the front works for me -usually in under 15 seconds. BUT the first time I do it in the year I tell them how long that took them and that next time I will keep them after the bell for however long it takes them to be quiet over 15 seconds. The next time they go over 15 seconds I keep them, even if it's only two seconds. After that the kids shush each other.
i love your channel. and your classroom is awesome and so is your personality. i agree to you that building relationship to your studz makes a difference. public secodary teacher here from the philippines. keep it up
Great Vid! Sarcasm is how I get the kids - If kids arn't paying attention to me I quite often pull out the "I don't understand why you arn't listening to me - I AM YOUR WORLD!" - Followed by a hair flip, of course (despite my hair always being in a top knot). I like the water gun idea though ... I currently have a peice of a pool noodle that I carry around with me - bop them on the head if they need it (of course, as you said - depends on the student and the relationship you have with them). Thanks for being awesome - the kids are lucky to have you.
Amazing video as usual! I especially liked what you said about who you are dictating how you run your classroom! I completely agree with you! as a new teacher myself, I have to remind myself of this!
I do the count down from 4 too and have them say "lock in" all together. It's my attempt of not making it seem so childish and 6-8 graders do it great. Sometimes we have to practice to remind what the expectations are.
Classroom management was my largest issue in my first practicum, my second is in the fall! My Mentor gave me no advice or tips and was on my case about class management everyday:/ Definitely did not feel like I had support, ya know? So this summer I am watching all the videos I can, and finding resources to try in the fall so hopefully things will go better. (The classes still had a 75% average on what I taught them though so it was a good starting place!)
Thanks, Reynolds! I teach Jr. High in Tijuana. A lot of the things you say are really on point, I try to do things for students that are aligned to the way I am and it works ;)
This is my first year in HS. Many years ago, I taught 8th grade. However, I had many years of elementary in between. Lol I also got old. I don’t have any super interesting way to start class... I usually say Hey guys. If they don’t stop I’ll say Hellur in Madia mode. What I have had to change is my control. It works in Elem. But I noticed when you try to force control and fuss a lot... 9th graders try harder to push your buttons and they push back every minute of class every single day. Lol and they are actually more immature than 5th graders. Sticking their tongue out, flipping the bird while ‘scratching’ their noses... that kind of stuff. I had to lay off a bit and let them listen to music on their phones, let them chat some. Trial and error. What works today, may not work tomorrow. I enjoyed your tips and intend on implementing some of them.
Teaching students 16-18 in North Wales UK. Subjects employability and digital literacy. Need suggestions on how to get my class engaged as they seem to have very little intrinsic motivation to learn. Probably because the subjects are not the most interesting and the fact they think they know enough about using social media but can’t create a folder
Thanks for the advice. I also use a point system like you, however my kids start out with zero. Then for every good deed or participation deed they do, they get a point. Either I or a responsible student would track the points (under my supervision). On top of that there were three golden points on the board that everyone would receive at the end of class (so even those who had not participated would at least get three points). However, if they did not get quiet when I chimed a single bar chime (very high pitch that can be heard over the noise), I would remove a point (this was displayed on the board). As soon as one kid noticed, they would begin getting others quiet for me, "Hey! Hey! She's removing points! So-and-so stop talking!" I never had to raise my voice in class to get them quiet. What's more, once the kids learned what I was doing, they would get quiet immediately after the first chime. I no longer needed to remove points. It sounds Pavlovian, and maybe it is, but it works like a chime-I mean charm.
Hey, I'm just starting my journey at 47 lol. Would you recommend writing the tasks up for the day and using a reward/punishment system for tasks completed ie. Reward could be an activity Punishment could be minutes held behind?
This is my second year teaching and for the past year or so, I've been trying to bond with kids and that has worked quite well in the sense that they'll come to me for chats, advice, etc. I just don't think that this has exactly contributed to class discipline with couple of classes. They're grown-ups and even though we're pretty close age-wise, they seem to have a way higher threshold to be excited that I'd expected! ._.
i just started teaching 18-24 year olds (mostly) and shocked at the wildness of my first class. Found these videos and can't wait to start my next class in Jan 2022. Sure will be different
I etered a classroom today as a substitute teacher and I told them story to catch their attention and guess what, it worked! But the problem is that is does not make them quiet all the session . I also tried a riddle to increase their critical thinking and they participated with high motivation
This was really informative and funny....LOL!! I believe that having a relationship with your students is important as well. It really gets them to respond to my requests better. I also give out some of the treats that you mentioned. My students are always hungry...LOL, but I think I'll give the points system a shot! This sounds like something that may work for me also! Thank so very much, Mr. R. (I feel like I've known you forever...LMAO!!) Blessings to you!
So I'm still student teaching but I accepted a position in 7th grade English to start in January. I'm 5'2 and am not very loud, but I have found that standing on a desk or table is great for me. It totally catches students off guard but I have their attention immediately! We'll see how it works in my actual classroom!
I love your videos and I agree with you that relationships are the key, but, I am a substitute and usually only in a room for one day. Could you make a video with advice for subs? What do you want subs to do when they are in your room?
If anyone is still watching these: the standing there quietly method works better with kids who are generally respectful. They can control themselves and are willing to listen to you, though they may go off the rails at times. Even if it takes a moment, kids will start telling each other to be quiet so that you can do your job. For classes with most kids who have low maturity/self control, I find that the counting method works best. They need to be told what to do, even if they don’t want to. Make eye contact and hold it with the students who still aren’t being quiet. If the count doesn’t quiet everyone repeat it twice. If there are only a few kids left, call them out by name to snap them back. If they continue to misbehave, call/text their parents in the middle of class and show them the text. If that doesn’t work, apologize to them and begin the long road to building some sort of relationship with them because a month or two of buildup will yield a smoother year. Remember, this process is slow, but it will work. Do not be surprised if they slip every now and then, just keep at it. It will be hard, especially if you have 20-30 kids like that; pick a few and go with them. You do not have time to help everyone- talk to other teachers and spread the work around.
I like to sing a favorite song with the kids (I'm a preschool teacher). It takes guts to start singing in the middle of all the chatter--but it works really well. I also like to be silly and make the kids laugh with a silly voice or with a silly puppet, that usually makes them look over at me and then I tell them what needs to done.
😂 I have done some weird stuff for my kids. One of my kids loves to work for 3DS she didn't want to pay attention to me so I told her hey I like your bugers! Is that a compliment?! She looked up at me and said god no ewww that's not a compliment. 😂🤣 one time I totally called her Bob the alien from Mars who like cheetos and did almost all of her therapy that way. She loved it.
What would you do if you get 14 year-olds come roaring into class after break, all hyped up and totally restless? if they shout in class (it actually sounds like a roar) or if they refuse, point blank, to take out the workbook/classwork? and if they answer back? I only see this group once a week for 40 mins, so I can't adopt the point system you suggested. All your other suggestions btw are not doable unless i want to get in trouble with the head of school.
I called my students Chitlins lol when I told them what it was one students face was like 😮 😂😂😂 I was like “I say it because it sounds like children...so it’s cute” 😇
I flash the lights if they’re all yaking away after morning announcements that unfortunately don’t start at the same time every morning. So if there are announcements then they’re over… pause… “okay folks let’s get started” lights off lights on and we’re good to go.
Hey Reynolds! I'm a 2nd year 8th grade history teacher, and I absolutely LOVE your videos! But I have to say, standing quietly works pretty well for me! If I'm giving instructions and kids are talking, I just stop mid-sentence and smile and (appear to) wait patiently. Most of my kids get annoyed with the talkers and tell them to "Shhh!" for me. It works like a charm! Anyway, thanks for your all of your awesome, uplifting videos!
Students' management doesn't require any of these fancy tricks, all you need to do is to give them a sound beating if they don't shut up. That was our daily bread on the ships when serving for the the British Navy. And that's how we taught the next generation, those idling scoundrels!!
@@balthazarmccohen4435 please by my teacher
I will try this one.
When I stand idly, my students either ignore me or just get louder. One time I stood there for like 10 minutes, and then finally gave up and just walked around helping the kids who were trying to pay attention.
you probably dont give a shit but does anyone know a way to get back into an instagram account??
I was stupid lost the login password. I love any assistance you can give me
The red mystery square. When kids interrupt, lose focus and chatter increases; I draw one line of a what will hopefully (for them and me) not become a complete square. That's when consequences are applied. I never tell them what the consequences are, but when we get to that point (almost never), I reserve the right to dole out any punishment (I'm very reasonable and fair) I choose for any student. They see that first red line and the majority of the class begins the shhhh! pressure. Repetition and consistency are so key. Thanks for helpful insights!
‘Who you are, should dictate how your classroom runs’......... oh my goodness, you have no idea how much that one sentence resonates with me.
I am starting my first year of teaching in January (in Australia), and I’ve had a wide variety of people telling me how it should be done. Some tips (like many of yours) have inspired me to reflect on my future classroom and the way I want it to be. Others make me question my ability to teach at all, because I know I won’t do it the way they say it ‘should’ be done.
I am 40 years old (and yes, only just beginning my teaching journey!) and who I am at my core is NOT the same as the teacher next door, or across the hall. We aren’t the same and our classrooms won’t be the same, and now (thanks to you!) I realise that that is OK.
So thank you, for all that you do.
Nic Utting I'm in the same boat as you. Just got done student teaching and will have my own classroom in January. And I know exactly how you feel! I am wading through all the tips and advice to find what works for me.
Nic that's awesome!!
You are also going to find out that starting out as a teacher at 40 has all kinds of perks. You have all of that experience to back up what you teach. It's going to be the best!
I will be almost 40 when I start teaching in America, so don't let age bother you. People tell me that too and its hard because I have been in school so long.
What are the qualifications required for applying in Australia can you guide me ?
I do teacher vs students and when the majority of students come into the classroom loud and not in control of their selves I receive a point. When they are working good and on task and quiet they receive a point. At the end of the week if I have the most points we continue with our daily routine but if they have the most they get 15 extra minutes of recess. I also do talk time for the last 10 minutes of the day if students don't individually lose points they can talk and sit with their buddy if not they have to write for 10 minutes about why didn't receive talk time and what they will do to correct this behavior.
I love this strategy.
❤️❤️❤️
"Did I just compared children with dogs? I did."😂😂😂😂😂
My go to is always singing... Maybe an, 'I Wiiiiissshhhh I could direct you! But you refuse to listen up..." to the tune of Aint too Proud by the temptations! No matter what, I get a reaction and within 5-10 second the attention is on me so that I may teach! :) And it is fun!
I am so serious at class, in order to make them listen and pay attention, and that works for me and they understand well. But they told the vice principal that they don't like this serious thing even if they understand well. So I tried to be little bit funny but they laughed and lost their whole attention and the class became a mess . Now I am continuing my serious way and I don't care about their opinion.
I tried once to be cool, chill teacher and it didn't work, so I'll be serious
I have a big stop-watch and lift it up whenever I want them to be quiet. The class has a total of 60 seconds during a lesson. Everything that goes over the 60 seconds we add to the end of class and they have to sit absolutely still during that time. It works pretty well
I simply use a bellringer! Everyday the kids walk in, look at the board, and know what they need to do right then and there. This took a bit of training to get the kids in this routine, but it's made my life a bit easier and has given me the opportunity to stop and take attendance or take care of something that might need taken care of right at the beginning of class.
I'd love to see tips for closure in a lesson!
The bell ringer is a great idea!
I'll see if I can plan out that video. Thanks for the idea!
Quick Write on a topic. 3-2-1 3 facts 2 comments 1 question about the lesson.
We call it an “entry task” here, but same thing! I got this idea from a co-worker who teaches geometry-an “exit task.” I don’t use an exit task every day, but I always have one prepared in case I need it. Once in a while if class has gone super smoothly I’ll play a video (song) they like or I play a dance song and we end class with a dance party!
What types of tasks would u recommend for a bell ringer?
Dude I have so many of your videos saved in my "watch later" file. I've already seen them but it's my way of saving them to refresh my memory of classroom tips. #rolemodel
Classroom management comes with procedures! Kids need something to do the moment they walk into the room after you greet them. I call the first task of the day a “do now” because they are supposed to do it now. Other teachers call it a bell ringer or flash review. Usually it’s a short answer question from the previous days lesson.
I totally agree with snacks or another type of reward. I have elementary special ed kids so they respond well to hearing me compliment another kid "thank you for being ready to learn". "Thank you for getting started right away" "I love your hair today!". Having a routine helps too.
Mid lesson, if the snacks and taking points aren't working, I've been known to look out the window and say "omg. Check out that dead bird flying! See, everyone looked bc you didn't listen to all of the words." "Yo, who's dog is that chilling across the street?" "Oh look so and so's mom is outside. Everyone wave. Aw man, you just missed her!" Definitely goes with your personality.
How did I just find you? Where have you been all my life?! This is pure gold! Found you super randomly and love your energy and video tips. I've been teaching for 7 years now and I am definitely not a conventional teacher so you're are a fabulous find! Thanks for being so authentic and invested in our youth. Keep up the amazing work. Back to bingeing your videos now! :)
Awesome so glad you fond the channel, welcome :) There is also a closed Facebook group for teachers if your interested. m.facebook.com/groups/566468247135630?ref=share
I am an "experienced" teacher and am looking forward to sharing your videos with my student teacher. I agree wholeheartedly that you have to find what works with your personality. I encourage my student teachers to try something. If it doesn't work for them, they just have not found the right fit. It will come. I cue behavior through routines and music (lowering volume to cue a transition). The waiting for quiet works for me, but it is only because I have built relationships. If I stand silently at the front of my room (a rare spot for me) they all look and listen quick. I rarely raise my voice above the normal projection range. I feel yelling is the WORST way to get what you want. I know you mentioned this in another video, but greeting them at the door really helps them focus as well. P.S. 24+ years and still loving it!
As a future teacher, I so appreciate you!
actually yeah I was an after school tutor and it was easier to build a rapport with the students and get them to be respectful, but been the new sub at a new school everyday makes it a lot more difficult. can't wait to teach full-time.
I start speaking to my class with a Russian accent and pretending I am from Siberia. (in my thick accent voice) "Class, I am Ms. Stepanov, and today vee are goink to skeeep count by trees to get to 99. So, get out your toes if you have any left and lets go. I don't have toes because the froze off when I was digging in the snow to find potatoes with my Poppi. So lets go, tree, seeks, nine, tvelve......" Works every darn time. Even in high school. You just have to be careful that when you say a word with the accent you are not accidentally swearing at the class. lol. Really happened.
I do the countdown thing, but every time I get to a number with an "R" I roll the R excessively and they're usually so impressed they stop what they're doing and try to copy me xD "Fourrrrrrr, THRRRRRRRRREE" I'm an MS/HS music teacher of a 100% Chinese population of kids and there isn't much rolling in East Asian languages so most of them aren't used to it so they're like "Dang... You so talented..." xD
OMG, I used different accents all the time. Their favorite was the British accent.
I let kids read in any accent they want.
I'm a behaviour manager in a primary school, UK.
I'd like to share a simple tool that helps me and my mates in school. I raise up my hand quietly, ensuring that each individual finger is shown. My students know that each finger worth 1 point. They always respond to it in such a positive way since they want to earn these 5 points really bad (it's 5 minutes extra break, or free laptop time).
I love the fact that many of them encourage each other which transform the classroom's culture!
I invite you to try that out! I bet you're all really going to benefit from it! :)
For me, I stand quiet in front of class. I talk, and a lot. So when I'm quiet and I have that “look” on my face, they know something is up. One thing I started doing in the hallway, is sing. We have a strict no hats policy and for those that chose to ignore our requests, I sang at them. Want me to stop? Take the hat off. It worked. I have learned to call the dissenters out by name - loudly in front of the class. I have had one student ask me why I disrespected him in front of the others. I asked him why he disrespected me in front of my students. Then I proceeded to tell him that if he didn't like it, don't to it to me. I have finally found my voice... your advice has helped!
I have a jar of skittles! I put one skittle on their desk for those that have their warm-ups out! Works every time.
I’m about to start teaching in September, and I absolutely love your channel. I bought your book for my birthday and finished it in 3 days! I am inspired and hope I can be a great teacher like you!
how’s it going?
I am a substitute teacher, so I sometimes have to employ slightly different methods of getting a class's attention.
Most of the time, simply standing in front of the classroom quietly works. I can tell with a classroom from the moment they walk in whether that tactic is going to work or not, and I always have a backup plan. In fact, I have multiple backup plans!
I have answer buzzers that I got on Amazon (for about $10, I think). There are 4 of them, and I place them strategically around the room before the students come in for the day. If I need to get some attention from the class, and I can't get it otherwise, I will just press on whatever buzzer is closest to me. It makes a funny noise, and it captures the kids attention.
I also have a harmonica. This is an excellent method because most kids have never really heard a harmonica. I make sure to play it really badly so that they don't want to hear it again. LOL
I also bring a tambourine, although I will use that sparingly.
I absolutely love your videos! I’m a 2nd year middle school humanities teacher, and I like to start class with a 5-minute countdown video (before class starts) and a list of “what you need for today” on the screen (textbook, journal, laptop, a positive attitude, etc) :) students know they need to be in their seats when the time gets to zero or they’ll be marked tardy. It’s fun to see them dash around the room in the final seconds!
When they are all talking, I’ve trained them to get quiet and put their hand in the air when they see me do the same. It takes around 10-15 seconds for them all to be quiet, and sometimes a few of them will run up for a quick high five 😂
I hope this might be helpful for someone out there!
They hand in the air idea is something I just learned from a friend. It works great!
Just a heads up…
We are putting on a back to school boot camp to help teachers start the year off right! The boot camp will focus on building relationships with students and classroom management. It’s a two night event on August 9&10 at 7:30 pm est. Here’s the link:
reynolds.samcart.com/products/back-to-school-bootcamp
I'm an art teacher and call and response has always worked well for me. I got this from Cassie Stephens but shortened it. I say "Good morning Amazing Artists, and they are trained to say "Good morning, Amazing Art Teacher." Then we get going. For the older, too cool classes, I simply say "Good morning, Mrs/Mr. ______'s class!" and they say "Good morning, Mrs. Swartzendruber" Bonus. It helps them remember my name. If I need to get their attention in the middle of class I do a clap pattern and they repeat it or simply "give me five" To signal clean up time I shake a tambourine or a maraca. I guess the real key to all this is that I teach them all these every year.
I still have some Halloween chocs like little Twix from Halloween. I have a bag because no kids came. I'll bring it tomorrow. Thanks sir❤❤❤❤
Just started teaching 2d art, having a real hard time starting class. Lots of behavioral issues. I’ve raised my hand and stood their silently, I use a microphone, which does help, but man am I frustrated with getting kids on task. Like your vids!
Carl here's the secret... just keep trying stuff and don't be afraid of what the kids might think. If you do this, then one day something will just work and you will be amazed that things have changed. 😊
I give my kids a thirty second or one or two minute warning, (depending on what they are in the middle of) so they know that they need to find a stopping place, put materials away, and be prepared to listen for the next thing. I think it's more realistic and more respectful to give them a chance to switch gears, rather than expect and demand immediate silence. The exception is when they are first coming into the classroom. I expect them to come in silently, and get started on the bell ringer assignment without talking.
100% That seems like a great way to handle things. 😊👍🏽
Haha , I’m all about the count down ! All of this is great advice and I think that when you are in a new environment kids don’t know why to expect or what your expectations are so of course they will try to see what they can get away with.
One thing that works for me.... I sit up at the front of the room and type onto the projector screen,
"I love it when you get started without any reminder!
Thank you:
Jose
Alan
Gracie
Miguel
Lucero
Vincent.....
And just like what you said with the candy, only write up the names of students who got started without a reminder.
I’ve noticed that one tactic will work for about 9 weeks and then they lose interest. I try to change it up....currently giving out smiley face stickers. I thought 7th graders would think it was stupid, but I’m EXTREMELY stingy with the stickers, and now they are crazy for them. One student will get mad if everyone at their table gets one except them. Lol!!! They crack me up!
Loving these ideas...My thing is getting them as settled as possible BEFORE they even enter the room. I have them stand in two straight lines (boys and girls) and I usually greet them outside the room before letting them in. I also use the count down sometimes.
Greeting at the door is a great idea! Good work Teach!
I know this is an older video from an older time, but you remind me so much of my 6th grade English teacher from like 20 years ago it's insane. 100% wouldn't have survived middle school without that guy. He was super big on building relationships with students on a level we could understand while still being a great teacher you couldn't help but respect. You really know what's up and I'm glad you're continuing to put stuff out there that other teachers can see.
Thank you. Appreciate the support and conformation!
One thing i do is I'll go to one group of students "focus in three. Pass it on" and then get them to tell the next group of students. It depends on the class, but when it works it works well. It gives students that time to prep to get ready to listen, and by getting the students to tell each other it can help class connections. Then after 3 minutes I'll call them back. Like I said, depends on the students, but if you've got a group of self driven, and motivated students it's worth a shot
I love to sing to them while changing the lyrics “put your homework in the bin” “tuck that shirt in or it’s a number” “we have a test so start to study” I usually do it in an operatic way. If anyone cringes I start to sing off key.
I usually greet people with "Greetings and salutations comrade" or "Howdy partner" so I'll probably use something to that effect with my students, as it comes naturally. It tends to make people laugh, too, which is a plus! I'm not sure what my teaching style is (I'm still a college kid, haha) but I would say my personality in general is just strange. I'm not a very consistent personality, and am an ever-evolving enigma even to myself most times. So maybe I'll be interesting enough to catch my students' attention. Your videos help tremendously for me, and allow me to see the career I'm trying to get into for what it is, rather than the imaginative and probably much too idealistic scenarios that run rampant in my head. Downfalls to being a dreamer, I suppose. I'll definitely use those traits to an advantage, though.
Just the thing I was looking for today! Having a bit of trouble with keeping classes on task and quiet that I am subbing for in an all boys high school. Not having much time to get to know students makes things so much harder! Going to keep trying out different strategies to see what works best so thanks for some tips I can use!
Thanks for the comment. Maybe try just moving around the room or sitting with a small group and helping them on their assignments. Don't feel like you have to win the whole class. You'll get there. 😊
I am linking my teaching mentee to ALL of your videos! I do countdowns and something like your point system for kids who do what they need to do automatically. For my toughest class, I like to do snacks too. I only use "I'll wait" if I get interrupted.
You sound fantastic!! Thanks for passing along the vids too!☺️ If i can ever help with anything or you think of a video that might help more mentees please let me know. Hope your year is the best!!☺️
My kids will do anything for an apple! I was surprised to learn this after I kept the leftover fruit from their breakfast. So now apples to the first three on their bellwork!
That's great! My son would do anything for an apple too! 😂 He eats about 6 a day! Great work!
i’m a sophomore and i’m taking modern world history and what my teacher does is right when the bell rings he walks in, turns off the lights, and says kind of loud “good morning guys!” or something like that. he stands in the hall in between classes and the sound of the door shutting gets our attention and is the signal for us to find our seats and it works great!
I do the counting bit and it works well. I love the idea of greeting them as aliens. I’m going to have to try that on my next sub job!
I teach 4th grade, which is a bit different, but I have been finding that starting a class by standing and doing a clapping and stomping body rhythm together helps to get the class settled and focused. If I lose their focus, I count down from 5 and then we all do 2 claps together. That's their signal for quiet listening.
Count down: 3...you are getting your notebooks and pencils...2... you are facing forward... 1...your eyes and ears are open...lets begin.
I find that if you have the respect of students there is not a problem getting their attention. It is about setting expectations, affirming those expectations and being consistent. Respect is something that is earned and not expected. Simple advise.
💯 well said.
Taking your idea of the ridiculous greeting and combo with the silence thing- I start signing in ASL to a student who's being quiet, and everyone else goes "whoa, what the hell is this, what she saying?"
Oh man! I wish this was available for today's 9:30 am 6th grade class with 14 boys and 4 girls. "Good morning, pink fluffy unicorns" would have worked perfectly.
I teach 9-10th grade men's choir in China and I call my boys all sorts of embarassing things to get their attention. One time we combined with women's choir to perform for each other and out of habit I said "Alright sunflowers, let's sing!" and girls all paused and laughed and the boys turned bright red and I was like "......oh god I'm so sorry......" xD
Thank you algorithm for knowing what my classroom needed this week
I use the amazon bell. When they are talking I just hit the button and it always catches them off guard. I switch up the sounds and really have them confused. They're looking around wondering where the sound came from. ME: Now that I have your attention.
Amazon bell? telll mmee mooorree?
I’ll say.... all eyes on Mrs. D or give me 5. I will also say “Show me what a good listener looks like.” I do the count down too or I stand there and wait. I take minutes off recess if they won’t stop talking and I call it hassle time. They owe hassle time to me. Hassle time is paid with additional instruction time or at recess. By the way, I teach fourth grade.
Very good ideas! I am new to my school (not necessarily to teaching) and have found that getting my students to pay attention at the start of class has been more of a challenge at my new school. Thanks for the tips!
Hi Sierra! It’s crazy how you have to sort of start over when you switch schools. Best of luck to you!
Yes! This is what I do!
Thank you for your videos! I’m getting ready to go back into teaching after a few years, and I appreciate the refresher. Great ideas!
So glad this appeared in my 'recommended'. I'm really struggling with this right now. I'm a student teacher (I've just started!) and the school I'm teaching in is pretty tough -- the kids aren't really used to teachers sticking around for more than a semester because everyone who goes to teach there ends up quitting. So yeah, I'm struggling with this, but the only advice my in-school mentor could give me was 'work on your classroom presence' which she then followed by saying, 'but this is going to be hard for you because you're a petite young woman and you've got quite a soft voice'... so, yeah, I guess I'll just magically grow eight inches and develop a harrowing bellow overnight, shall I?? Real helpful.
Hi Emily!
That advice is bullshit. Some of the best teachers I've ever know have been "petite young women" with quite voices. One of my favorite people in the world is my friend Sarah. she teaches across the hall from me. She is about 5 feet tall with red curly hair and she does not have a commanding voice. To look at her she does not look like she would she would survive at a school like mine. As it turns out she is hands down the most beloved teacher in our school. She does that by not backing down from any student, by constantly doing anything she can to help kids, and never giving up on anyone. If the kids know that you are truly there for them and you take the time to create relationships (even small ones) with every kid, you will win. Out care and out work everyone and you will absolutely crush it. I promise.
I am a substitute teacher and I carry a harmonica in my pocket. Sometimes, (last year) I used it to help calm down special-needs-students who had never met me. This year, I am substituting in the regular classes at high school. One class was unruly loud and wouldn't listen to me. I went around to 2 or 3 groups of students (they sat in groups), and I "threatened" to play my harmonica if they don't be quiet... and I promised I play badly. They smiled and the room quieted down within a minute. I didn't need to actually play the harmonica but I think the silly threat caught them off guard and it worked. I have found that being a LITTLE bit silly, or sometimes speaking loudly and firmly, shows the kids I am in charge, I respect them, and we are here to work.
Wow the counting is so real, it works almost every time for me!!
Ok I had to come back and edit this bc everything you said works for me haha :0 :)!
A few more suggestions that might work for you: 1) start the day with a game they really like [Kahoot, Quizizz, Plickrs, etc.] (2) assign seats they don't particularly care for - beat the bell, you get to pick your own seat; 3) tape a playing card or some type of desk marker - students pick a random card from a stack of corresponding cards - then they need to find the corresponding seat.
Thanks for your video. The kids must love you. Great Personality!!! I will kind of in a sing-songie way say, "Uh-oh" and then smile at them. This really works well.
Great, practical tips. I like how you hit on essential, daily stuff ... and stay upbeat about it.
Thanks!
Actually, referring to your comment about being yourself in the classroom, I have learned 100% myself and it works for me. I'm a super silly person and so I'm just like that with my kids. During transitions and after school, my kids and I have a blast. I think they feel safe to come into my classroom to just talk to me, play instruments or hang out and sing together. I've worked really hard at building good relationships with them. I feel like during content and rehearsal time (I'm a music teacher) I am able to bring them back to focus, and when it comes to serious topics - I honestly feel like they take me more seriously them BECAUSE I'm so silly all the time. But sometimes, I wonder if I'm being too silly or if I'm just kidding myself into thinking that I have the best of both worlds when I really don't. I don't think I would be successful trying to be serious all the time (tried that in student teaching and it BACKFIRED) I'm still a pretty young teacher so I know I have a long way to go.... Any other silly teachers out there who think about this?
Once, I was trying to get my students' attention, so I wrote something on the board that said "When you see this, oink like a pig" and a couple of students were curious about what I was writing. The students who watched me write it on the board started oinking and showing their friends the board. This leaves students who are still talking confused about why everyone is oinking. Suddenly everyone catches on after seeing the board, and you now have their attention once the oinking dies down. You could do this with anything. "When you see this, pat your head and rub your belly" if you want one that is more silent. You could even make a game out of it, like the last person to start oinking/pat their head and rub their belly has to do 5 push ups or something.
LOVE THE KIDS. I wish them the best!!!
I loudly say, “THANKS, everybody who’s already (doing x)!” It works well on everyone who’s awake.
My school has a pandemic of sleepers. I think that problem is residual from online school; kids aren’t used to having to be awake all day anymore. I don’t have a positive way of dealing with that yet.
I just found your videos this morning. I teach high school English and am also an actress, so I use the strategy of acting out different roles with different accents. Just the other day, I acted like a witch and said, "Come, little children!" It was creepy, but some of them thought it was funny.
I do a combo approach - I figure it gets old doing the same thing every time. But I do have go-to signals that I teach at the beginning of the year when I go over classroom procedures. Count downs are easy because I can be anywhere in the room. But I have a few ridiculous noise makers and a really loud bike horn (which I like to save for sleeping students). I also like to call them ridiculous names, like dumplings and butter cups and treasures. I’m a rather sarcastic person so they find it funny when I call them sweet names. Ialso like to use Class Dojo - I always project their warm-up and instructions for the day when they walk in, and I can have my phone or iPad with the dojo app. If kids are reading the screen and following directions without my prompting, I will give the dojo points. They hear the bell that sounds when a point is added and the rest of them start scrambling so they can get points. Talk about Pavlov’s dogs! 😂
You always have great ideas. 😊 Thanks for taking the time to share them.
Real Rap With Reynolds I appreciate your videos so much! There aren’t a ton of secondary teachers doing the UA-cam thing, and it’s great to have a place to turn here for great ideas, collaboration and inspiration.
i needed to hear when you started talking at 8:30 its my 3rd day and I feel doubtful :( idk what to do when the students act reckless like standing on desks or something -_- i feel like im not doing a good job.. but when i see what some students write for class i get so inspired to keep on going. Im an ELAR teacher by the way.
Keep going Arielle! My guess is that some of their behavior comes from them not knowing you yet. As you build those relationships they will act less reckless.
I am a 5 foot 2 female and waiting quietly at the front works for me -usually in under 15 seconds. BUT the first time I do it in the year I tell them how long that took them and that next time I will keep them after the bell for however long it takes them to be quiet over 15 seconds. The next time they go over 15 seconds I keep them, even if it's only two seconds. After that the kids shush each other.
i love your channel. and your classroom is awesome and so is your personality. i agree to you that building relationship to your studz makes a difference. public secodary teacher here from the philippines. keep it up
Great Vid! Sarcasm is how I get the kids - If kids arn't paying attention to me I quite often pull out the "I don't understand why you arn't listening to me - I AM YOUR WORLD!" - Followed by a hair flip, of course (despite my hair always being in a top knot). I like the water gun idea though ... I currently have a peice of a pool noodle that I carry around with me - bop them on the head if they need it (of course, as you said - depends on the student and the relationship you have with them). Thanks for being awesome - the kids are lucky to have you.
Amazing video as usual!
I especially liked what you said about who you are dictating how you run your classroom! I completely agree with you! as a new teacher myself, I have to remind myself of this!
It's so important, but it can be really scary to show who you truly are.
i am a new teacher Ray, but i really applied almost all your advices in my class, and fortunately almost all works. special thanks man!
I do the count down from 4 too and have them say "lock in" all together. It's my attempt of not making it seem so childish and 6-8 graders do it great. Sometimes we have to practice to remind what the expectations are.
Classroom management was my largest issue in my first practicum, my second is in the fall! My Mentor gave me no advice or tips and was on my case about class management everyday:/ Definitely did not feel like I had support, ya know? So this summer I am watching all the videos I can, and finding resources to try in the fall so hopefully things will go better. (The classes still had a 75% average on what I taught them though so it was a good starting place!)
Thanks, Reynolds! I teach Jr. High in Tijuana. A lot of the things you say are really on point, I try to do things for students that are aligned to the way I am and it works ;)
jolly ranchers, i feed them veggies from my garden (free), love the ideas, thanks ;o)
I have a bell that I ring. It’s better than the whistle which students hated.
Love seeing the Dan Gable book you have on your shelf @2:45. One of the best I've read in a long time
Good eye! I agree.
thanks so much for your videos, theyre helping me get through my virtual field hours. hope youre doing well in 2022
Love to hear it! If there is Ever anything we can do please just let us know!
Hey Reynolds! I'm a 1st grade class teacher and i recently started watching your videos. I think you are Awesome. Keep Going.
This is my first year in HS. Many years ago, I taught 8th grade. However, I had many years of elementary in between. Lol I also got old. I don’t have any super interesting way to start class... I usually say Hey guys. If they don’t stop I’ll say Hellur in Madia mode. What I have had to change is my control. It works in Elem. But I noticed when you try to force control and fuss a lot... 9th graders try harder to push your buttons and they push back every minute of class every single day. Lol and they are actually more immature than 5th graders. Sticking their tongue out, flipping the bird while ‘scratching’ their noses... that kind of stuff. I had to lay off a bit and let them listen to music on their phones, let them chat some. Trial and error. What works today, may not work tomorrow. I enjoyed your tips and intend on implementing some of them.
Teaching students 16-18 in North Wales UK. Subjects employability and digital literacy. Need suggestions on how to get my class engaged as they seem to have very little intrinsic motivation to learn. Probably because the subjects are not the most interesting and the fact they think they know enough about using social media but can’t create a folder
Thanks for the advice. I also use a point system like you, however my kids start out with zero. Then for every good deed or participation deed they do, they get a point. Either I or a responsible student would track the points (under my supervision). On top of that there were three golden points on the board that everyone would receive at the end of class (so even those who had not participated would at least get three points). However, if they did not get quiet when I chimed a single bar chime (very high pitch that can be heard over the noise), I would remove a point (this was displayed on the board). As soon as one kid noticed, they would begin getting others quiet for me, "Hey! Hey! She's removing points! So-and-so stop talking!" I never had to raise my voice in class to get them quiet. What's more, once the kids learned what I was doing, they would get quiet immediately after the first chime. I no longer needed to remove points. It sounds Pavlovian, and maybe it is, but it works like a chime-I mean charm.
Brilliant! That’s a great idea.
Just had a rough 2nd day of school and this was sooooooo helpful! Thank you
Hey, I'm just starting my journey at 47 lol.
Would you recommend writing the tasks up for the day and using a reward/punishment system for tasks completed ie. Reward could be an activity
Punishment could be minutes held behind?
i told my students, hello mutants, and i got enquiry from Principal, hahahah
Thank you so much for all your videos. They help
Glad to here it! I appreciate it!!
This is my second year teaching and for the past year or so, I've been trying to bond with kids and that has worked quite well in the sense that they'll come to me for chats, advice, etc. I just don't think that this has exactly contributed to class discipline with couple of classes. They're grown-ups and even though we're pretty close age-wise, they seem to have a way higher threshold to be excited that I'd expected! ._.
i just started teaching 18-24 year olds (mostly) and shocked at the wildness of my first class. Found these videos and can't wait to start my next class in Jan 2022. Sure will be different
I etered a classroom today as a substitute teacher and I told them story to catch their attention and guess what, it worked!
But the problem is that is does not make them quiet all the session .
I also tried a riddle to increase their critical thinking and they participated with high motivation
This was really informative and funny....LOL!! I believe that having a relationship with your students is important as well. It really gets them to respond to my requests better. I also give out some of the treats that you mentioned. My students are always hungry...LOL, but I think I'll give the points system a shot! This sounds like something that may work for me also! Thank so very much, Mr. R. (I feel like I've known you forever...LMAO!!) Blessings to you!
So I'm still student teaching but I accepted a position in 7th grade English to start in January. I'm 5'2 and am not very loud, but I have found that standing on a desk or table is great for me. It totally catches students off guard but I have their attention immediately! We'll see how it works in my actual classroom!
Another awesome video! I have sung to my class with a really good voice and it has worked. I am not sure whether it would work over and over, though.
i'm so glad i came across your channel. thank you so much for the ideas and inspiration!
I'm new to the American classroom set up and your videos is saving my entire teaching career 😂
Queen of I can do that ...🥳 Best of luck to you!!
I love your videos and I agree with you that relationships are the key, but, I am a substitute and usually only in a room for one day. Could you make a video with advice for subs? What do you want subs to do when they are in your room?
If anyone is still watching these: the standing there quietly method works better with kids who are generally respectful. They can control themselves and are willing to listen to you, though they may go off the rails at times. Even if it takes a moment, kids will start telling each other to be quiet so that you can do your job. For classes with most kids who have low maturity/self control, I find that the counting method works best. They need to be told what to do, even if they don’t want to. Make eye contact and hold it with the students who still aren’t being quiet. If the count doesn’t quiet everyone repeat it twice. If there are only a few kids left, call them out by name to snap them back. If they continue to misbehave, call/text their parents in the middle of class and show them the text. If that doesn’t work, apologize to them and begin the long road to building some sort of relationship with them because a month or two of buildup will yield a smoother year. Remember, this process is slow, but it will work. Do not be surprised if they slip every now and then, just keep at it. It will be hard, especially if you have 20-30 kids like that; pick a few and go with them. You do not have time to help everyone- talk to other teachers and spread the work around.
I like to sing a favorite song with the kids (I'm a preschool teacher). It takes guts to start singing in the middle of all the chatter--but it works really well. I also like to be silly and make the kids laugh with a silly voice or with a silly puppet, that usually makes them look over at me and then I tell them what needs to done.
😂 I have done some weird stuff for my kids. One of my kids loves to work for 3DS she didn't want to pay attention to me so I told her hey I like your bugers! Is that a compliment?! She looked up at me and said god no ewww that's not a compliment. 😂🤣 one time I totally called her Bob the alien from Mars who like cheetos and did almost all of her therapy that way. She loved it.
What would you do if you get 14 year-olds come roaring into class after break, all hyped up and totally restless? if they shout in class (it actually sounds like a roar) or if they refuse, point blank, to take out the workbook/classwork? and if they answer back? I only see this group once a week for 40 mins, so I can't adopt the point system you suggested. All your other suggestions btw are not doable unless i want to get in trouble with the head of school.
jumping jacks then sit
I called my students Chitlins lol when I told them what it was one students face was like 😮 😂😂😂 I was like “I say it because it sounds like children...so it’s cute” 😇
😂😂😂 That's hilarious!
Me toooo!
I call them whatever falls outta my mouth.
Sometimes sugar boogers, sometimes zombies, it's whatever is fitting for the moment.
I flash the lights if they’re all yaking away after morning announcements that unfortunately don’t start at the same time every morning. So if there are announcements then they’re over… pause… “okay folks let’s get started” lights off lights on and we’re good to go.
I started following you from the Family Guy reference alone. Period.
😂you never know what’s going to grab someone. My best to you this summer Kenyatta!
This is for me! I'm new, at a new school. I'm hoping it goes well. :)