Submitted by Doug Edwards
Idea posted January 24, 2007
I found an easy classroom management phrase to help me when giving group instruction on instruments: "Don't play until I say; if you do, then you're through." Students usually do not want to lose their chance to play the instruments, so they usually do not break the rule. It is also easy for them to remember. The rule is effective if you enforce it. Students who are "through" spend five minutes in time out.
Also, when students are working in small groups, like at centers, I use another phrase that has helped me manage the many questions students ask me: "Ask three, then me." Students know this rule when needing help. It is a great way for them to practice their own problem-solving skills, and allows for peer-teaching to occur.