Managing the Classroom

All teachers have to learn how to manage a classroom efficiently. It becomes a worry for all new teachers entering a new classroom, how to manage students and how to keep classes under control. "Effective classroom management has less to do with strategies and more to do with substance." When it come to managing a classroom experienced teachers have a combination of "authority and expertise" that aides in containing the conflict. 

This combination of "authority and expertise" is known as "gravitas"  according to Early Career English Teachers in Action. Gravitas is expressed in the body language, words, and interactions with students. Gravitas could be consider a process, and it is something that all teachers should work to developing as a skill. A teacher needs to be able to have a strong presence in the classroom. 

Top 10 Secrets of Successful Classroom Management  puts a better perspective on classroom management and also how to be successful as a teacher. 

1. Effective classroom management is based on a learn able set of skills.
2.  Establish a positive relationship with the class.
3. Praise is a powerful tool.
4. Welcome feedback from your students.
5. Create a safe learning environment.
6. Variety is the key to engaging students.
7. Establish the expectation that everyone must participate in class every day.
8. Assessments should look forward, not back.
9. Parents have expectations of teachers. 
10. Indicate to parents the potential for growth in their child.

These secrets actually put a good perspective on the classroom and how certain things can be solved and handled. But controlling a teacher that is able to control a classroom comes with experience on the job as well, so its good to develop relationships with students and colleagues to help the learning process along.