Make Life Easier with Good Class Procedures

by Cheryl Mizerny · Published 10/04/2015 · Updated 08/12/2024

A MiddleWeb Blog

In her article "Make Life Easier with Good Class Procedures," Cheryl Mizerny offers practical advice for teachers, particularly those new to the profession, on establishing effective classroom routines and procedures. Mizerny, a seasoned middle school teacher, understands the challenges that come with managing a classroom full of adolescents. She emphasizes that well-thought-out procedures can significantly reduce teacher stress, improve classroom management, and enhance student learning.

Mizerny likens the process of establishing classroom routines to choosing a diet plan; there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Just as different diets work for different people, various classroom routines work better for different teachers, depending on their personalities and teaching styles. The key is to experiment, find what works best for you, and be flexible enough to tweak your procedures as needed.

One of the central themes of the article is the importance of simplicity and consistency. Mizerny highlights several specific procedures that have proven effective in her classroom. For example, she discusses the common issue of students forgetting essential materials like pencils and paper. Rather than punishing students or wasting instructional time, she keeps a tray of paper and a cup of pencils available for students to borrow. To ensure that students come prepared with other necessary items, such as binders and books, she posts a daily reminder outside her classroom. These simple procedures minimize disruptions and help students develop the habit of arriving prepared.

Mizerny also addresses the often chaotic process of collecting assignments. She introduces the "Magic Tray" as a designated spot where students are expected to place all completed work. This method eliminates the risk of losing assignments and streamlines the grading process. By using a consistent collection point, Mizerny has successfully reduced the time spent on managing paperwork, allowing her to focus more on instruction.

Another effective routine Mizerny shares is posting the daily agenda and learning objectives in the same place every day. This practice not only keeps students informed and reduces the number of questions about what is happening but also helps those who need structure and predictability to feel more comfortable in the classroom.

The article underscores that the most effective routines are those that align with a teacher's natural style and reduce their stress while supporting student success. Mizerny encourages teachers to consider what works best for them and to be open to modifying their routines as they gain experience throughout the school year. By implementing clear, consistent, and thoughtful procedures, teachers can create a positive and productive learning environment that benefits both them and their students.

For more detailed information, you can read the full article at MiddleWeb here.

Original Article

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Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com