What an Effective Teacher’s Classroom Looks Like

by Annette Breaux and Todd Whitaker

In our ongoing observations of teachers, we continue to notice that the most effective teachers’ classrooms all look uncannily similar. And, of course, the same can be said for the less effective teachers—their classrooms all look uncannily similar.

It seems that no matter where we go, the students all act the same in the classrooms of the most effective teachers. And yes, no matter where we go, the students all act the same in the classrooms of less effective teachers. We are, of course, speaking in generalities here.

Let’s take a look inside of less effective teachers’ classrooms first.

Here is what they all seem to have in common:

◆ The classroom looks disorganized. There is “stuff” everywhere.
◆ Lessons lack luster and excitement.
◆ The teacher does most of the talking, and the students do little listening.
◆ There is little, if any, evidence of structured routines and procedures.
◆ There are lots of teacher warnings directed at misbehaving students.
◆ The teacher is reactive.
◆ Objectives are vague and often confusing.
◆ There is little teacher movement around the room. The teacher generally stays toward the front of the room. Guess where most of the behavior problems occur! Farthest from the teacher.
◆ There is an overuse of worksheet-type activities.
◆ Consequences for behavior infractions are inconsistent. The severity of the punishment is usually in direct proportion to the teacher ’s anxiety level.
◆ The teacher openly shows frustration.
◆ The lessons are usually “one size fits all.” Unfortunately, most fit none.
◆ Technology is often used “for the sake of using it” as opposed to being used to enhance the lesson.
◆ There is little positive reinforcement.
◆ Teacher enthusiasm is lacking.

Now for the good news

We could go on, but we think we’ve made the point. Now for the good news.

Here’s what we saw in the classrooms of the most effective teachers:

◆ The classroom is organized. A place for everything and everything in its place.
◆ Lessons are inviting and exciting.
◆ The students do most of the talking and the doing, prompted by the teacher ’s questioning and guidance.
◆ Routines and procedures are evident. Students know exactly what is expected of them.
◆ There are no teacher warnings for student misbehavior. If a rule is broken, a consequence follows. If a procedure isn’t followed, the teacher provides more practice.
◆ The teacher is proactive.
◆ Lesson objectives are clear and measurable.
◆ There is constant teacher movement around the room. Behavior problems are almost nonexistent.
◆ There is little dependence on worksheet-type activities. Lessons are highly interactive, and students remain engaged in meaningful activities.
◆ The punishment for any given infraction is consistent (and rare).
◆ The teacher does not show frustration. Even in the case of misbehavior, the problem is handled seriously but calmly. The teacher always appears to be in control.
◆ Activities are varied to meet the needs of all learners.
◆ Technology is used, thoughtfully, to enhance lessons and learning.
◆ There is constant positive reinforcement.
◆ Teacher enthusiasm is evident and contagious.

You now have a blueprint for what an effective teacher ’s classroom looks like. Try it on for size, and get your teaching organized. Management is the key to success. Just do it, and be at your best! For an organized teacher is a happier one than one who has let things come undone.

Two helpful downloads:

► 7 Things Effective Teachers Do EVERY Day
► 7 Things You Can Do to Be a More Effective Teacher Tomorrow

Seven Simple Secrets: What the BEST Teachers Know and Do!