On Classroom Management#1

As a new teacher I heard the basics of classroom management from various sources. The first thing everyone said is “Don’t let them see you smile until December.” The next piece of advice was to be firm; on the first day make them take out their notebooks and take notes, don’t inundate them with information but give them the impression that you mean business. Basically be a friendly asshole for a bit.

The easiest way to enforce rules is to have them printed. Everyone knew what the ‘Code of Hammurabi’ was because it was there in plain sight. And if you couldn’t see it, it was probably because you’ve already lost an eye. To this end have your Syllabus printed out for your students. By the way, you did read correctly. Why should Colleges have a monopoly on the Syllabus thing. Students in Secondary Education (7-12) are expected to know how to read somewhat and it makes a really good impression to ensure and firmly let them know that you are in fact serious. The more components of your Syllabus that you wish to highlight should already be written clearly on the board. K-I-S-S it. [Keep it simple stupid.] Do not forget the essentials such as the proper spelling (and pronunciation, if you’re a smart ass like me), your room number, the textbook to be issued, and some chutzpah of an objective for the course. Bear in mind that you are allowed to revise the Syllabus, especially after you catch your own typos.

Below are two examples of Syllabic – One I did, and another I found while researching what a “High School” Syllabus should look like. (~~Sorry about the poor watermarking.~~)