Number one: You are the adult. Don't argue with your students. And NEVER let a student run your class.
Number two: Be consistent and fair.
Number three: Be quick and decisive. Never appologize.
Number four: Say what you mean and mean what you say. Follow through.
Number five: Give choices. "You can either sit up straight and do your work, or you can have your mother come up to the school. It's your choice."
Number six: Rewards. Positive Reinforcement. It works when you are consistent.
Number seven: Stay calm. Breathe. Keep your voice low. "I don't know who you think you are taking to you, but I know you are not talking to me, the only adult in this class, that way."
Number eight: "I define yelling as your voice being louder than mine."
Number nine: Constantly review the rules and procedures.
Number ten: If it isn't working ditch it and start over. It is okay.
Write everything down. That is how I stay organized. Everyday I make "to do" list and check them of as I have completed the task. But day to day organization is not what you're really asking about..... In my classroom I have a place for everything and a daily routine. I have an in box and an out box with graded work. All of my students also have their own folders which are in floating files. I have a class helper, who changes every week, pass out their folders and the papers that have been graded. I also have my helper collect the daily assignment. As for bell ringers I stopped collecting them. I now have my students collect 25 bell ringers than hand in that pack for one grade at the end of the 9 weeks. It's seeming to work,plus it helps them keep up with their papers. And its less papers for me to grade. Bottom line have a place and/or procedure for everything. Never let your desk get junked with papers. Everyday before I leave I straighten up my desk. Chaos leads to chaos. Organization leads to order. Students don't like to be in a classroom that is disorganized. Plus when you're organized you are better and more effecient at discipline and rewards. Good luck at staying organized.
** It may seem like a lot of work, but in the end staying organized saves you time.
