Tips for High School Teachers?

Question

I have taught in an urban middle school but this year I am being placed into an urban high school... any tips on how to get the class' attention and disipline ideas.... Also, how should I start my first day? Is it true that I should be really mean and then lighten up? I was told not to smile until Christmas... Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

I worked as a note taker in a high school for 7 years. The best line I ever heard was something like this:

This is Trig...if you aren't supposed to be in this class go to the guidance office. If you are not here to work and pay attention, there is the door.

This teacher was young, brilliant, took no bull from students, and was respected by all the "little darlings"

Good luck! You have ONE tough job. Thanks

Answer 2

Be tough but reasonable. One of the things that I found INCREDIBLY helpful is this: when a kid acts up and does not listen right away call his parent THAT NIGHT. The kid will be perfect the next day and you will hear him telling others that you called his house. The others do not want a phone call home and they will not give you a hard time at all.
If you do not have any "problem students" right away then call home or send home a postcard the first week to about 5 kids (1 per class) saying that they are doing a great job in your class. Give your email and tell the parent to contact you if there are any concerns. Those kids will also tell their friends about the phone call and post card. The kids will behave because they know that you phone home and/or because they want positive feedback as well. I bought a bunch of post cards at the dollar store.

Answer 3

I see you are getting all the usual "be tough" answers. My focus was always more on keeping them busy. Always be prepared with lessons that keep them focused. They know if you are just giving them busy work. Make it interesting. Get grades back to them as soon as possible. Those that do cause discipline problems will soon be more worried about their bad grades. Contact parents soon and often to let them know you are "concerned" about their progress. Most will want to learn something and will appreciate a non-boring class. I was always more worried about teaching middle school. If you can teach there, I think you will do great in high school. Good luck

Answer 4

I would say use the old velvet glove iron fist approach.
Give the kids respect but do not take crap off of them either.
If you have any problem students I would suggest making a example of them right off the jump.
Otherwise just relax and make what ever you teach interesting and fun.
be creative and have fun.
Good Luck

Answer 5

Be tough on them for the first couple of days, discipline every slip-up...set the precedence as these kids will test you! You can eventually start to lighten up after they know you are a disciplinarian.

Answer 6

No don't be mean.Teach a subject that you really like and does not bore you for an entire school year.Play a game on the first day and come with a smile.Good luck!

Answer 7

Don't try to be their best friend, they'll step all over you.

Be respectful, but firm. And don't be afraid to slam your foot down. The way you act at the beginning of the year will set the tone for the rest of it.

Answer 8

yes, be firm & don't let them get away w/ anything,
if they need to be thrown out of class for not
behaving the correct way then do so ( when they get
caught roaming the halls they will be sorry)
don't be mean, but do be in charge
good luck

Answer 9

be strong and firm .........don't let them get anything over on you .....

pick out the trouble makers early on , and try to gain their assistance , for instance give them small tasks to assist you with .

good luck !

Answer 10

Well, dear... I would recommend you show some tiddiez...they will luv u. hehe!