Behaviour

Probably the most difficult bit................

Even the most experienced senior teachers sometimes have trouble with pupils - a fact that is well worth remembering.

Blessed is the teacher who has his class writing something down within the first five/ten minutes of meeting them for the first time.

Try to be at the door to greet pupils as they arrive (if possible by name). This not only avoids having to correct behaviour outside the classroom but gives the opportunity to spend a few seconds with each pupil individually as the arrive.

If some pupils are proving a problem, avoid picking on the ring leader. He or she is likely to be an expert on playing up staff and has a position of 'cred' to maintain. So whatever you may threaten they must remain cool and cannot appear to be bothered. Instead choose one or two down the pecking order who have committed a similar offence. As always, avoid a confrontation in front of the class but at the end be extremely firm/severe so that word gets back to the others by next lesson that it is not worth messing you around.

	At the end of the lesson avoid disciplining a small group together at the same time. Pick them off individually. This has the advantage that by themselves they haven't an audiance to play to and your comments can be adjusted to each in turn. Don't let them enjoy the 'safety in numbers' thing.
	Whispering in the ear - a useful technique, particularly with boys. The consequences for the unacceptable behaviour can be made in a threatening tone but no-one else can hear - thus taking away any 'am I bothered cred'.
	Lines - please, please don't give lines. As a punishment it should have died out years ago but sadly is still occasionally seen. Whatever mantra has been given to write out in their minds they are writing 'I hate this lesson, I hate this teacher' - not good for building relationships.
	Detentions - avoid too many detainees at one time unless you are in complete control. Between them the punishment could easily turn into 'a bit of a laugh'.
	Sending pupils outside - there may be times when this is needed to relieve the pressure. However, don't make a habit of it and never have more than one outside the classroom at the same time. For a deviant spending the lesson outside with a friend would be a 'real result' - not having to work and having a chat.
	Send to someone - If you anticipate there may be a problem with some pupils in a class try to make an arrangement with another member of staff (Head of Dept or experienced) beforehand that a pupil may be sent to them. Check also your school policy on this.
	Avoid specific threats - To some it doesn't matter what you threaten, it is more important to remain 'cool' in front of their peers. Leave it open 'You won't believe how bad it will be'
	Humour - If possible use humour to make the point that certain behaviour is unnacceptable. For example, "Are you one of those people who thinks that Father Christmas only looks out for good boys and girls in December ?" The Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy are also worth a mention. Be warned though, when any humour is used in a classroom you must make sure of your class. They can easily turn it round against you by choruses of falsed laughter.