Classroom Management Strategies That Make Kids Listen

Introduction

This tutorial provides effective classroom management strategies to ensure students listen and engage during lessons. Based on insights from behavior expert Sue Cowley, these techniques help teachers create a focused learning environment that encourages student participation and retention of information.

Step 1: Communicate Clearly and Concisely

• Avoid lengthy explanations. Say what you need to communicate in a single, clear statement.
• Ensure every student is paying attention before you start speaking. Check the room to confirm focus.
• Encourage visual stillness along with silence. Ask students to be visually attentive.

Step 2: Utilize Engaging Attention Signals

• Instead of repeatedly asking for attention, pause and use a signal to redirect focus.
• Vary your attention-getting techniques to maintain interest. Examples include:
  • Hands up for attention
  • Call and respond phrases
  • Interactive movements like “head, shoulders, knees, and toes”

Step 3: Master Tone and Volume Control

• Use an exaggerated tone to convey emotions. For instance:
  • Sound disappointed if students are not listening.
  • Express surprise to highlight positive behavior.
• Maintain a calm volume. The quieter you speak, the more students will listen.

Step 4: Train Students Not to Interrupt

• Every time a student interrupts, pause without acknowledging the interruption.
• Continue your lesson as if the interruption didn’t happen, then invite the student to respond when appropriate.
• Over time, students will learn to minimize interruptions as they recognize the response pattern.

Step 5: Optimize Classroom Layout

• Position students who are prone to interruptions closer to you for better management.
• Ensure you can circulate freely to monitor student behavior and maintain engagement.

Step 6: Provide Clear Instructions

• Start with a clear cue. For example, say, “When I say go, please begin.”
• Use simple language and repetition. Check for understanding by asking students to repeat instructions back to you.
• Utilize a teaching assistant to manage students who struggle to listen while you conduct whole-class teaching.

Step 7: Foster Relevance and Engagement

• Connect lessons to real-world applications to pique student interest. Explain how the material is relevant to their lives.
• Build strong relationships with students to foster trust and a willingness to engage.

Conclusion

Implementing these classroom management strategies can significantly enhance student listening and participation. Experiment with various techniques, adjust your approach based on student responses, and remember to be patient as students learn these new expectations. By creating a structured and engaging environment, you will help students better absorb the material and improve overall classroom dynamics.