October 2025 Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Clubs Network
Alpha Delta Kappa Collegiate Clubs & Alumni Welcome to our monthly newsletter! We are here to provide you with some helpful tips, connections, and networking opportunities.
Edition MAN A G E ME N T Golden Thread of Effective Teaching Betty Jo Evers Arizona Iota
Classroom management is the golden thread of effective teaching. Without it, teaching becomes a challenge. The first step to classroom management is to establish norms (rules) to ensure order in the classroom and the attention of the students.
These norms should be created with input from older students. Younger student norms should be supported by pictures as well as words. Remember, the teacher must follow and model the same norms. Four or five open-ended norms are sufficient. Each norm should tell what the student can do, and omit the words, not or never. EXAMPLES: 1. Run outside, walk inside; instead of do not run inside. 2. Use good-manner words like please and thank you or be respectful; instead of listing the words that are unacceptable. 3. Use loud voices outside, soft voices inside; instead of do not shout inside. 4. Help others; instead of rude behavior will not be tolerated. Post the norms in the classroom and read them at the beginning of each day. This sets the tone of acceptable behavior for all to follow. When a student needs to be redirected or reminded, have the student read the norm that best applies to the situation and discuss it; instead of the teacher referring to the norm. Then, it is personal to the student and applies to everyday routines in the classroom. Norms (rules) establish order in classroom and are the first step to classroom management and effective teaching.