Classroom Management Ideas in High School

Classroom management is different at the high school level than it is for younger grades. Part of teenagers' development is to test boundaries, which they gladly do at school. Classroom management is one of the greatest concerns of teachers and administrators when addressing the safety and well-being of students. It also ranks at the top of concerns for beginning teachers. Know some classroom management tips before entering a high school classroom.

Establishing classroom rules is an important part of successful classroom management. A few clear and specific rules help students more than long lists that are difficult to remember.

Teenagers appreciate knowing expectations. Post rules and goals clearly in the classroom. Review them throughout the year when necessary.

Send parents a copy of your rules at the start of the school year. This is an important preventive measure. Also, if you later call home about a student, his or her parents will be familiar with your guidelines.

Students often misbehave when they are bored. Structure your class period so that students are learning and working the entire class. Plan a backup exercise in case a lesson finishes early. Read a class book or play an educational game. Keep vocabulary flashcards readily available for students to use when they complete work.

Maintain a schedule. Write out activities for the day so students know what to expect from the day. When students are familiar with a routine, they are less likely to stray from it with misbehavior.

When a student strays, give the appropriate consequence. This not only helps the student who went off course, but it also sets a constructive classroom atmosphere. When students see that you will consistently enforce rules and administer consequences, they will likely meet your expectations.

Additionally, teach rules and routines consistently and enforce them at the beginning of the year. This establishes good discipline and student behavior. Prevent problems before they occur by consistently providing a strong example of how to behave.

Don't fear involving other educators in your classroom management. Experienced teachers may have sound advice for your classroom. Administrators would rather help than have a problem fester.

Lastly, involve students in classroom management. Teach the rules just as you would any other lesson. Complete activities and create bulletin boards about rules. A well-managed class leads to a safe environment, which is necessary for a successful school year.