Silencing a Noisy Class

1. You are boss – if you do not believe you are in charge, then, your students will not. You have to be able to conduct yourself in such a way that you command respect and conformity in your classroom. Your students must always remember that you are the teacher, and thus, whatever rules and regulations you draw up, must be observed. Do not ever let your students think that you are not in full control of them. The minute they sense this, all hell will break loose. No matter how difficult your students are, do not ever give in. Maintain that strength and soon they will learn to live by your rules.

2. Rules on noise – once you decide on what the rules of the classroom are, then, make it clear to your students. Discuss it with them and ensure that they fully understand. There should not be room for any misinterpretation and argument later on. Consistency is a must in a classroom. If you fail to consistently uphold the rules, then you cannot expect your students to follow them.

3. Entry into the classroom – this must also be regulated. From the minute the students enter your classroom, your rules must apply. Instil in them everything you want, all of it that must be carried out in an orderly fashion. Get your students to line up outside the room before they enter. If they cannot, then, they are not allowed into the classroom.

4. Settling down – once the students have entered the classroom, and if you gauge that they do not seem like they are settling down, set out some work for them to get them settled. Ensure that there is always a ‘twist’ that will get them engaged right away. A time limit is always a great tool to use here.

5. Silence please – some teachers choose to shout down their students while other teachers choose to patiently wait. Some students will respond, while others will not. If the disobedience continues, then you need to have a backup plan. Ensure that whichever approach you choose, it must be powerful and command their attention.