Question

The other day it was too noisy in class. The boys fidgeted and whispered, the girls giggled. I asked what the fidgeting was about. Averted eyes. As I half-turned to the blackboard, everything started again. What could I do? I said I wanted "their undivided attention". Nothing. Suddenly I noticed that one of the boys who had been sort of labelled as a trouble-maker since he appeared in this school made a move. So I rushed upon him and made him leave the class-room. I knew I was wrong, but I had to do something to impose discipline. What would you do? Do you think I was wrong?

Answer 1

With all due respect, I don't think that was a wise decision to have that boy leave the classroom. He wasn't even the one to blame! Clearly that was another boy who was disrupting your lesson by making jokes, so that the girls could marvel at his wits.

I would make him stand up and come to the blackboard, and then repeat all the jokes out loud. That would only be fair if everyone could have a good laugh. And that would most certainly make the boy a local star! Or not. Or he would  just be so embarassed that he would never even consider cracking a joke in your class.

При всем уважении, я не думаю, что это было мудрым решением выгнать мальчика из класса. Это ведь была даже не его вина! Очевидно,  что другой паренек нарушал тишину своими шутками, только для того, чтобы девочки могли восхититься его остроумием.

Я бы заставил его выйти к доске и повторить все шутки вслух. По-моему это честно, в этом случае все ученики могли бы от души посмеяться. К тому же мальчик, наверняка, стал бы местной звездой! Или нет. Или бы он просто был до такой степени смущен, что никогда бы больше даже не думал шутить на ваших уроках.

Answer 2

In a situation where the classroom is noisy and disruptive, it's important to address the issue while maintaining a fair and supportive learning environment. Rushing upon a student and making them leave the classroom may not have been the most effective or appropriate approach. It's understandable that you felt the need to impose discipline, but it's essential to consider alternative strategies that promote positive behavior and address the underlying causes of the disruption.

Here are some steps you could have taken to handle the situation more effectively:

1. Stay calm: Maintain your composure and avoid reacting impulsively. Take a deep breath and assess the situation objectively.

2. Address the entire class: Instead of singling out one student, address the entire class as a collective unit. Make eye contact and use a firm but calm voice to get their attention.

3. Establish clear expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for behavior and the consequences for disruptive actions. Let the students know that their undivided attention is required for an effective learning environment.

4. Investigate the cause: Rather than assuming the students are intentionally being disruptive, inquire about the reasons behind their behavior. Ask open-ended questions to understand if there's an issue or topic that needs addressing.

5. Offer alternative activities: If the students are restless or bored, consider incorporating interactive or engaging activities into the lesson to maintain their focus and interest.

6. Use positive reinforcement: Acknowledge and praise students who are actively engaged and following the rules. Positive reinforcement can encourage better behavior from the whole class.

7. Seek support: If the disruptive behavior persists or escalates, consult with a school counselor, administrator, or other experienced teachers for advice and support in managing the situation effectively.

Remember, maintaining discipline in the classroom involves creating a respectful and supportive learning environment rather than solely focusing on punitive actions. It's important to reflect on your approach and consider alternative strategies that foster positive behavior and address the underlying issues.