Introduction
Classroom management is one of the biggest challenges educators face, regardless of experience level. It shapes how students behave, learn, and interact—and it can make or break the learning environment. In his video, teacher Thom Gibson shares ten tried-and-tested classroom management tips that help build a positive, respectful, and productive classroom culture. While no single strategy is a quick fix, combining these techniques can lead to remarkable results.
1. Have a Seating Chart on Day One
Start your first class with a clear seating plan. Students may grumble about assigned seats, but don’t apologise for it. Politely acknowledge their complaints and stick to your plan.
Display the chart on the board with each student’s name so they know exactly where to sit. This avoids confusion during those crucial first minutes. If you find certain seating arrangements aren’t working, don’t hesitate to move students. Simply say, “I thought this change would work better for the classroom dynamic.”
If students want to discuss their seat, ask them to talk after class—never in front of everyone. Listen to their concerns privately, show empathy, and decide whether an adjustment is needed.
2. Schedule Brain Breaks
For lessons that last longer than 45 minutes, include a three-to-five-minute brain break. Although it slightly reduces teaching time, it boosts focus and productivity afterward.
Set a visible timer on the board. Students must return to their seats before it reaches zero. If they’re late, they lose the privilege of leaving during the next break. It’s a simple but effective way to help students reset while maintaining accountability.
3. Greet Students at the Door
Greeting students personally each day—by name, with eye contact, and a friendly gesture like a handshake, high-five, or fist bump—can make a big difference.
This daily ritual establishes one positive connection with every student. It sends a clear message: “You belong here, and I’m glad to see you.”
4. Wait for Silence Before Speaking
When asking for attention, don’t start talking until it’s completely quiet. Avoid looking irritated or impatient. Just pause, look around calmly, and wait.
Starting instructions while students are still talking signals that they don’t need to stop when asked. Waiting silently sets a firm yet respectful expectation.
5. Manage Noise Levels with the “NOISE” Technique
Group work often leads to rising noise levels. Instead of shouting over the chatter, use the NOISE system:
- Write the word NOISE on the board.
- Each time the class gets too loud, erase a letter.
- If only NO remains, students must work silently for a set period (e.g., 5–10 minutes).
This visual system gives students multiple warnings and encourages self-regulation. During silent time, ask them to focus individually, then resume group work once the timer ends.
6. Avoid Public Redirection
Whenever possible, don’t call out students by name in front of the class. Instead of saying, “Sarah, stop talking,” try, “I’m still waiting for three students to get their folders out.”
This subtle approach prompts everyone to self-check without embarrassment. It reduces confrontation and keeps the tone professional and calm. Public correction can lead to defensiveness or power struggles—private reminders maintain respect and control.
7. Try “Starbucks Mode” for Independent Work
Give students autonomy by letting them work where and with whom they prefer—within clear boundaries. Gibson calls this Starbucks Mode, inspired by the relaxed, focused atmosphere of a café.
Before beginning, establish expectations:
- Students must stay on task.
- Off-task behaviour means returning to their assigned seat.
- If they argue, calmly say, “You’ll have another chance tomorrow.”
Students often work harder when they feel trusted and empowered. Flexibility paired with consistency can do wonders for motivation.
8. Use Think-Pair-Share Frequently
Talking is inevitable in classrooms, so channel it productively. The Think-Pair-Share strategy helps students engage deeply with the material:
- Think about a question independently.
- Pair up to discuss responses.
- Share ideas as a class.
This process encourages participation, critical thinking, and communication skills. It also reduces off-topic chatter since students are guided to discuss relevant ideas
9. Handle Disrespect Privately and Calmly
When a student acts disrespectfully, never respond with anger or sarcasm. Confrontations in front of peers often escalate because students feel pressured to “save face.”
Instead, calmly ask the student to step into the hallway:
“Could you please step out for a moment so we can talk privately?”
Once outside, allow them to explain their side. Say, “It’s okay to be frustrated or bored, but it’s not okay to speak disrespectfully.” Emphasise that respect goes both ways—you respect them, and you expect respect in return.
Be genuinely curious about what caused the behaviour. Often, a calm conversation restores understanding better than punishment ever could.
10. Use a Reflection Sheet for Accountability
Gibson’s final tip ties directly to the previous one: have a hall refocus sheet for students to complete while waiting to speak with you.
It includes questions like:
- What happened?
- Why did it happen?
- What could you have done differently?
This reflection not only encourages personal responsibility but also serves as documentation for recurring issues. Teachers can add notes on the back to maintain accurate records for future discussions or parent meetings.
You can even request a copy of Gibson’s refocus form to adapt for your own use.
Final Thoughts
Classroom management is not about control—it’s about connection, clarity, and consistency. Thom Gibson reminds teachers that every strategy must fit within their unique classroom culture.
Greeting students warmly, listening to their concerns, and maintaining fairness and composure go a long way toward creating an environment where respect flows both ways.
By implementing these ten techniques, teachers can shift from constant discipline to meaningful learning—and free up time and energy for innovation, creativity, and genuine student engagement.
