Five effective tips for new (and experienced) teachers

  

---

 

1. Go With The Flow

You are likely coming into the classroom with big ideas and big goals. Keep those in mind but remember you’re part of larger ecosystem. Establish your footing and build your expertise as you go.

2. Don’t Encourage Students To Slack Off. Seriously.

Don’t shoot yourself in the proverbial foot. You can quickly do this by saying something like “I’m here to teach and if you slack off that’s your problem.”

3. Google Yourself. Your Students Will Do It On The First Day Of School.

Audit your digital self.  Do you want your Twitter account public? What about your Match.com account or perhaps your Instagram account? Got a personal blog? Re-read every single word.

4. Don’t Be Afraid To Use The Phrase “Let’s Talk About This After Class”

If you’re facing an unruly student or class, don’t be afraid to use the powerful phrase “let’s talk about this after class” and move on.

5. Don’t Send Problems Out Of The Classroom.

If you spend most of your classroom time handing out detention slips or sending students to the principal’s office, the administration will view you as a weak leader in the classroom. Sad to say, but it’s true.

  by Jeff Dunn