Praise your students

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2003 : October : 3

Praise your students
By Michelle A.

Hi, I understand what you are going through. First I'd like to say that the key word is "patience." In our classroom we have the students who tend to talk alot sitting in front of the classroom (where teachers desk is at).
Secondly, I think that sometimes we have to decide if as teachers we are expecting too much from our students. Are we taking the role of Authoritarians, or are we being Authoritative? The students in our classroom aren't made to stay completely silent. As a matter of fact they are allowed to speak and yes they do often blur out, or speak too loudly or even "disrupt" the class. We may

think they are being a disruption to the class but in reality they are being a disruption only to the teacher (I can almost guarantee that the students aren't a bit bothered by it). We have to remember that it is important to let our children express and make mistakes.
Also, I believe that VERBAL positive reinforcement is the best way to get the results that you would like. Children learn to tune out adults, especially when all they do is nag at them. No child or person wants to be the center of someone else's complaints! If you see the "talkers" not getting their work done, calmly call them to your desk (don't embarass them by drawing attention to them)and ask to see their work. Compliment them on what they have accomlished and kindly say, "wow, I see that you have done some great work here, do you think that you could finish this by break (i.e) so that I could look through it. I can't wait to see all your hard work!" I can honestly say that I do this, and WOW, my students get this look on their face that brightens up the room. Not only have I put the ball in their court, but I have also given them inspiration, that's all they need! Hope this helps.