too much talking

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too much talking
By cheryl

Boy, can I relate! I have been having the exact same problem with my fourth grade class this year. I have had to really crack down and almost allow no talking. One thing that helps is to have something for them to work
on as soon as they walk in the door. I do not allow them to talk at all when they walk in the door from switching classes. If I do, it only escalates.
I keep a chart with everyone's name on it. They get one warning for talking. After that I put a check mark by their name. For each check mark, they have to sit out five minutes of recess. If they get four check marks, I call home.

If they get more, they get a visit to the principal. I've never gotten to four check marks. There are always the same few who get one or two marks, but then they get the message real fast. I try to be consistent. I also try to allow them to talk sometimes...like when doing group work or during discussions.