Listening and Lighting

Works4Me presents weekly practical classroom tips from real experts -- your colleagues!

1. Active Listening

From Lisa Floryshak-Windman, an art teacher at New Canaan High School in New Canaan, Connecticut:

"I find that I work really hard at trying not to step on that escalator towards a conflict. Some things that have worked really well for me have been to ask the student to go take a walk or to get a drink, which gives time to cool down. Upon return, I ask the student to schedule a time to discuss the issue. If it?s urgent, I ask if it?s private and if we should go into the hall, or if it can be handled at my desk. I also make sure I repeat the student?s concerns back to the student as we are discussing things. For example, ?if I am understanding you correctly...? works well. ACTIVE LISTENING WITHOUT A DEFENSIVE REACTION IS KEY. Remain calm; you are the adult. If you allow the bulk of the class to see an escalation of your temper, you will loose their trust despite how they feel about what their peer is doing or saying to get that rise out of you. Do not hesitate to apologize when it?s called for. Damage control goes a long way, as does being approachable rather than defensive."
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2. Classroom Lighting

From Betty Hakanson, an English teacher at Freeport Middle School in Freeport, Florida:

"Instead of using the industrial, fluorescent, ceiling lights, I bring in lamps. Inexpensive floor lamps can be purchased at any discount stores or online. I put a lamp in each corner, in the back, by my desk, and use just one of the overhead light switches. Everybody loves the lamp look. It's warm and inviting and makes the room feel more like home."
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3. Question of the Week: Welcoming New Teachers

From the Works4Me Worker Bees:

"New teachers come in a number of shapes and sizes: young teachers fresh out of college; experienced teachers transferring from another school, district or state; or, older teachers coming to the profession as a second career. What suggestions do you have for making new teachers feel welcome in your school?"
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4. Fabric Swatches

Heard Last Week in the Works4Me Lounge from Ingrid:

"I have a TON of furniture fabric swatches in a variety of sizes, and I'm trying to find a good way to put them to use in the classroom. Any ideas? I don't want to just throw them out. I originally asked for some from a fabric store because I do use them as test taking cover ups. Each student keeps one in their desk and uses it to cover their answers during a test."
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