1. Classroom Management “Once students use problems as excuses, they find it increasingly difficult to get out of that pattern.” Brad Cohen, Front of the Class, p. 223

2. Organizing the Physical Space Engaging Curriculum Seating charts when necessary Clear and consistent expectations Flexible grouping:  peer leaders  personality conflicts  decreasing the possibility for distracting behavior Student need for autonomy and community “It turned out that the stronger that community was, the more the students reported liking the school and the more they saw learning as something valuable in its own right.” Alfie Kohn, Beyond Discipline, p. 103.

3.  “Must do’s” for a new teacher:  Consistency  Fairness  Commanding presence  Patience  Clear understanding of the institution’s directives  Asset model of teaching