Using Yourself to Your Advantage

Debbie Willingham
May 11, 2009

New teachers sometimes marvel at the apparent ease with which veteran teachers keep control and move through lessons in their classrooms. Of course, good planning for instruction using essential questions, activating strategies, engaging teaching strategies, and summarizing strategies is the foundation for smooth sailing in the classroom. There are also additional tips teachers should remember and use consistently.

First, be an "up" person; always give the appearance of being sure of yourself and aware of everything around you. Notice faces when you walk through the halls, even if you are in a hurry. Have an energetic look and good posture. Show those around you (students and adults) that you are glad to be in the school, and keep your bad days to yourself (at least in public!).

Use proximity to your advantage. When using direct, whole-class instruction, try to walk around the room as you talk; do not lecture from a podium. If you walk up next to a student who is not on task and make eye contact, most times the student will refocus himself. Sometimes a light touch on the shoulder is enough to get a student's attention back on task.

Use facial expression to your advantage. With some students, a severe look is all it takes, especially if it is followed by a smile as soon as they correct their behavior. It is okay if your students know that when you get "the look", they need to think about what they are doing.

Avoid power plays and postpone the discussion. Students need to know that you will not get into an argument with them during class; they should understand that they must surrender the contraband or note they are writing and that you will discuss it after class. When talking with them later, look for a win-win solution and have options in mind that will resolve the problem.

Value and respect your students. When students feel welcome and valued in the classroom, they are more likely to behave and demonstrate respect toward you. Model acceptable behavior yourself every day; teach it, show it, remind about it, and encourage it. Yelling does not work, drains you of energy, and raises blood pressure. It sends the message that you do not respect students but expect them to respect you. Sarcasm does not work either. It may intimidate a student into stopping the misbehavior briefly, but it does not create a supportive, respectful environment. Interact respectfully with misbehaving students.

Take ten - Wait ten seconds before responding to an explosive remark. This reduces tension and helps you to respond in a non-emotional way. Take ten minutes during the school day to relax and rejuvenate your energy level. Even if you have a million things to do, it is worth it. When you feel yourself getting stressed, take two long, deep breaths before going on.

Most of all, talk with your students, not at them. They are people too, and they are someone's children. Treat them the way you want them to learn to treat others. Use yourself to your advantage!