Leaders

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Home : 2003 : January : 25

Leaders
By Mrs. S

I can understand exactly what you mean. I have a 'leader' in one of my classes. I teach 6th. The first thing I would offer you is don't worry about the me against them thing. There is no them. Half want to obey, the other
half want to cut up. All the kids that want to listen and learn are on your side. Some other teachers will not like this terminology but when you have a class like yours, you have to sacrifice a hostage so the others will know that you mean business. When you get ready to play a game, tell them up front that anyone who talks out of turn is going to do an alternative assignment. The

first time you do this you may have a 'good' kid talk and have to make an example out of them. Say "I am sorry that you choose not to follow the rules. You may go and ...(something educational they can do at their seat). If they start to talk, tell them that you did not ask a question and they do not need to answer you. Do you get into a 'last word' battle with the leader? That is usually my problem. I have to have the last word too. They are not old enough to stay home alone, do not feel you have to explain yourself to them!
Also, try separating (sp?) the 6 boys that are in the group.
You can have the class come in from lunch and put their heads down for 5-7 minutes and calm down if that is a specific problem time. Good luck!