How to Manage a Fifth Grade Classroom

Managing a classroom effectively results in better student behavior.

A fifth-grade classroom can be a loud and raucous place, but it can also be a learning environment where students feel comfortable and welcomed. Classroom management styles differ from teacher to teacher, and you may have specific techniques you are required to use due to district or school policy. However, there are various ways to successfully manage a fifth-grade classroom and get positive educational results.

Instructions

1. Evaluate students at the start of the year to determine their personalities, habits and learning styles. This will give you an idea of which students may be prone to acting out in class and which students need additional support or need to be challenged.

2. Structure your class with activities that require students to move around. Plan short breaks for students to use the bathroom and get a drink of water -- they are still elementary school students after all. Even the best fifth-grade student needs a chance to chat with his neighbor, relax for a few moments and refocus before returning to work. As the year progresses, you will learn what good break times are. If students can return to work refreshed, they will focus more clearly.

3. Post classroom rules clearly on the wall of the classroom along with consequences for those rules. When fifth graders have expectations set for them, with consequences they know and understand, they can be responsible for their own actions. Posting the rules and consequences will also help you manage the classroom because you will have a guide to follow.

4. Discuss the rights and responsibilities of students at the start of the year and revisit the discussion throughout the year. Students should know their rights, such as being able to learn in a safe environment and being able to ask questions, as well as their responsibilities, such as raising their hand before talking and respecting other students. Rights and responsibilities are different from classroom rules because classroom rules dictate behaviors on a day-to-day basis while rights and responsibilities focus on the overall learning environment of the classroom.

References

• The Teacher's Guide: Classroom Management Strategies