Ideas for Substitute Classroom Management

Separate disruptive students from the rest of the class.

Substitute teachers are faced with the task of picking up a lesson plan when the regular teacher is out for the day. Sometimes students lose focus when a substitute teacher is in the room because they feel as if they have a free period, or a class where the normal day-to-day rules do not apply. Substitute teachers can use classroom management tools to keep the students focused.

Move Through the Room

Move through the aisles of the classroom so that you are nearby students throughout the class. If you are teaching from a book, bring the book with you. If you need to remain stationary, move to a specific spot for 10 minutes before moving to the next spot for another 10, and so on until the period is over. Your presence will help discourage students from passing notes, texting or trying to "get away" with being unfocused.

Change the Classroom Seating

Align the classroom seating in a square or circle. This will allow you to keep eye contact with every student while you teach the lesson plan. This type of seating is beneficial for lesson plans that call for a group discussion. Switch your eye focus back and forth to both sides of the room throughout the class to keep students engaged.

15 Point Method

Write the word "class" on the whiteboard or chalkboard at the start of the day. Inform the students that they will be working together throughout the day together to earn 15 points. If they earn 15 points, they will get a reward. A point can be earned for good citizenship, remaining quiet during quiet activities, paying attention and keeping an overall focus. A point rewards positive learning behavior. A point can also be deducted for behavior that disrupts learning. Reward activities can include extra recess, a free period at the end of the day, being allowed to play a game, or even some candy that you bring at the start of the day. (If you bring a big bowl of candy, place that in front of the room as a visual stimulus as well.)

Stop, Look and Listen

Have your students stop, look and listen when you make a pre-determined motion. At the start of the day, for instance, inform the students that every time you cross your arms, you would like them to stop, look and listen. Another variation is raising your hand or putting your finger over your mouth. It is important not to move forward with the activity until all the students have followed the command. Use a quiet command so you don't add more noise to the classroom.

References

• Super Substitute Teachers: Classroom Management