How to Control Noisy Students

Hi there, fellow educators! My name is Sara, and I've been teaching at a junior high school in Philadelphia for over a decade. One of the biggest challenges I've faced in my career is managing noisy students in the classroom. So today, I'm going to share with you one of my favorite tips on how to handle this common problem.

First and foremost, it's important to establish clear expectations with your students regarding noise level in the classroom. This can be done through a discussion or even a written agreement. Make sure everyone is on the same page about what is acceptable and what is not.

If you find your students are getting too loud, try using nonverbal cues to get their attention. You can use a hand signal or even turn off the lights to signal that it's time to quiet down. Another trick I've found helpful is to pause mid-sentence and wait for the noise level to decrease before continuing. This shows the students that you won't proceed until they're ready to listen.

For students who consistently struggle with noise control, I recommend using positive reinforcement. You can offer small rewards such as stickers or extra credit for students who consistently follow the expectations set for noise level.

Remember, managing a noisy classroom takes time and effort. But with clear expectations, nonverbal cues, and positive reinforcement, you can make great progress in creating a more productive learning environment. Best of luck to all of you in your teaching endeavors!