What I Do When Kids Won’t Stop Talking, High School English Teacher Advice

An experienced high school English teacher shares tips and tricks to make your teaching life easier. Today, let’s talk about how I handle overly chatty teenagers.
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[@richardroyster405]

Thanks Laura for pointing out what a lot of folks forget - There is no magic formula! Before teachers lose their cool, I would encourage them to look around at the next staff meeting. Are we behaving like we want our students to? A few years ago, I did a count at a staff meeting of the number of cell phones out in 10 minutes. It was 1/3 of the staff! How can we have higher expectations for a 15 year old than an adult? Let's reflect, be reasonable, continue to build relationships.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Yup, yeah, yes! I want to sit at your table at the next staff meeting, Richard. THIS is one of my biggest pet peeves - teachers sometimes (often?) are the worst students. Come on, people. Put your phones away, already. Sheesh!

[@debbieleyva]

I was covering for a teacher once and he told me, “I don’t really enforce the no cellphone rule because I look at my phone all the time during class.” I guess that says it all. :-)

[@whoatemychocolate4222]

Another piece of advice: make sure your instructions are crystal clear so that the kids know exactly what they are supposed to be doing. I find that if there is noise once I have set an activity, it is because my kids haven’t fully understood what they’re supposed to be doing and they are all asking each other. I of course from the front of the room hear it as a disrespectful refusal to get on with the work I have set. But the good news is that it is not the kids, it’s me, and improving this aspect of my classroom management is fully within my power.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Absolutely vital, Emma. Whenever possible, I deliver instructions three ways: 1. I say what I need them to do. 2. I hand out written instructions. 3. I write abbreviated instructions on the board. Do I STILL get questions? Of course. We work with teenagers. But it's not an on-slaught and other kids will often jump in with a, "Really, dude?" when a classmates asks, "What are we doing?" Thanks for watching and commenting! :)

[@josephinecioffi33]

I I am am 😂😂

[@nicholevanwinkle9240]

Having a relationship with the students is KEY...You nailed that. I loved listening to your suggestions...You're amazing!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks so much, Nichole! Glad you're here with me. :)

[@Albaby650]

You're right. Lots of good advice. Classroom management is more art than science. Teachers have to develop a style they feel comfortable with. Most of us old vets have our own stock phrases: "Hey, I want to see everybody's eyes. Your mouths should be closed unless you're a mouth breather." Kids do appreciate honesty (and humor), and if I growled (not barked) at a kid and said "HEY, I'M WORKING HEAH," they usually would apologize. A New York City street accent helps. Will admit that classroom control and management got a lot easier with experience (I retired after 30 years teaching high school), but those first few years were tough. Even though it seems like you were rambling, Laura, you were offering a variety of strategies that worked for you, and it's hard to give advice unless you're clear about the context of why the little angels are being so annoying. Don't erase this one. I wish I had had some of this advice and support years ago. Certain there are teachers starting out that will love it.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Sounds like your classroom humor was on point, Albaby650. Mouth breather - yes! My in-laws are New Yorkers and I can do their accent, so I'll definitely be adding my own Dustin Hoffman to the toolbox. ;)

[@deteacher2b]

For me it's all about building relationships with the kids...beginning day 1. Showing them you care and yes, mutual respect. Every day, every class, every facet is different. There are just too many dynamics for any magic pill in teaching. We have to have a toolbox to pull from. Classroom management classes can be very helpful as there is always a takeaway of some sort. In my 2nd year of teaching I was in every one of these classes I could sign up. I quickly realized that this is a nationwide issue (or else the classes would be nationwide and books would only be sold regionally on the topic) and that not all formulas work in all situations. Staying quiet (divide and conquer, as I like to call it) helps when they silence each other. I have used the light flickering in extreme moments, but like you, I have never disrespected them or told them to shut up. Your video was awesome! Keep them coming and hope you have an epic year with your students :)

[@swistian]

This video is actually SO helpful. Your “rambling” is so conversational and authentic. As a teacher in the early stages of his career, thank you.

[@civilizeddiva]

1:06: antecedent behavior. Yes, you generally will get a sense of what is to come by observing students as they all walk into your door (energy level, interactions...) Relationship building is an essential component to teaching. Have them help you create (no more) than 5 class rules (I.e., respect (self-others), advocating (self-others), perseverance, etc).

[@stevenlord5730]

Hey, Laura. Love your vibe, energy, and enthusiasm! I fully agree that if what you have for them to do is engaging and interesting, it helps mitigate the chattiness. The key here is planning ahead and being well-prepared. Flying by the seat of one’s pants doesn’t work. Yes, be ready to be flexible if the class zigs when you planned to zag, but always have the zag there to turn back to.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

THIS is how we win the room, for sure, Steven. I'm with you. I overplan and overprepare and then happily set the plan aside when the class conversation takes an interesting zig. That's the fun stuff! :)

[@w.j.hickman7976]

Thanks Laura for this vid!!! My wife teaches HS English and I teach 8th Grade Science. She started talking about you and we ended up surfing your channel, when I saw this I said let’s watch this one. I am so glad I did!!! Stress relief 101, that’s what you are!! Keep it real Laura!!! Great ideas, and just keep it up, I subscribed and can’t wait to watch your other videos!!! You are an inspiration!!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Aw...thanks so much, W.J. Glad you both are here with me! :)

[@Bengun67]

I had a history class , right after lunch break ( 2016 / Tucson ) . The kiddos were talking for 7 minutes, instead of getting their stuff out - and ready to work. So I used my coach whistle. Things got back on track , pretty quick. At the moment 25 min work, earns a brain break ( 5 min ) / in a 90 minute class. Works at my Phoenix school quite well. Thank you so much for sharing, I really appreciate it, Mam !

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I like your brain break approach, Bengun67. I don't know how kids can sit for 90 minutes at a clip all day long. Personally, my legs start itching around the half-hour mark. Thanks for commenting! :)

[@Bengun67]

I hear you, I got them talking at beginning of class - and this was not very productive. So I offered them a brain break after they got their work done. The cool thing about it is, " ownership of the learning process" by the students. Feel good factor 100%, and things actually get done . Sort of : win / win.... I love to utilize visuals ( from Google images ) for short stories / combining two pictures is in my experience very useful. Have a good weekend, Mrs Laura

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Great stuff! Bengun67 Weekend? What weekend? ;)

[@Bengun67]

I knooooow, well at least today . I am binge watching crash course theater. But tomorrow I got to get the lesson plan for the week and work on my grade book. Have a good one, anyway !

[@tsirtosky1439]

TYSM for getting my gears and passion going! It's amazing how similar techniques work with Pre K kids. Except you have to verbally remind most 4 y/os that recess or lunch is next or we can do something more fun if they hold quiet attention. And that we can't line up or play the fun game until they're settled, listening to instructions so we don't get hurt, etc. And the kid who still can't get it together: "would some alone time help you feel better? would a reset in the office help? or: here are your 2 choices - if you still can't choose by the time I count to 0 then I'll choose for you." A note on "TIME OUT" : It's become taboo in SO many places, but it's really just semantics. Sorry, but teachers are being INCREDIBLY MYOPIC if they think that HUMANS (kids/ adolescents/ adults) don't need time apart from people to deal with feelings or reset. TIME OUT or WHATEVER YOU CALL IT is NOT THE PROBLEM, time out as forced punishment when it doesn't actually heal, teach, or create immediate safety IS the problem. This truth seems so blatantly obvious if we take a quick step back and look at what humans need to function, that it baffles me that this is not being said in teacher trainings. Even in progressive education trainings. Sometimes teacher training avoids or walks on semantic eggshells that obscures reality / human needs, and it makes school a miserable experience for many kids and teachers. My heart bleeds for all my "Fraülein Marias" that get overstimulated or have too much energy and not enough recess / gross motor or quiet alone time. I think I need to do several blog posts on the lessons we can learn from the song "How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?" and the film TSOM. Maria wasn't meant for the abbey environment as many kids aren't meant for the traditional schedule and the 4-walled-cage environment.

[@mariamcdonald973]

Laura, thanks for your excellent channel. Concrete advice, solid philosophy, and you have a very engaging mode of expression! Thanks a bunch!

[@rillacooper5477]

Thanks for making this one! This is actually one of my favorite videos from you, Laura. You essentially give a teaching philosophy statement :). It is so encouraging to see like-minded educators having success with the same kind of strategies. When we respect the kids, show that we genuinely care, have high expectations, establish clear boundaries, and then let them have fun within those boundaries...it's amazing what kind of learning can happen. You do have to 'act' a bit within your teacher persona, but dealing with the chatters is all a part of what makes being an educator such a great challenge. Appreciate your time and advice with this one!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Glad this one was useful, Rilla, and you gotta know that I love all of your support over the years. You've been with me a long time and here we are, still hanging out on a Sunday morning. :D Keep being awesome!

[@RillaCooper]

@@laurarandazzo1158 right back at ya! Your resources have really made a world of difference in my teaching (and sanity with prep time!). As always, appreciate your hard work and dedication. The TPT community is making the field better :)

[@michaelmiles9669]

These are some great tips and reminders! I'm an aide in a middle school resource room and have trouble sometimes with 8th graders being really talkative. I have to remind myself that they're usually just being social and not trying to be disrespectful.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

For sure, Michael. It's almost always unintentional. (Almost.) :)

[@suzannenichols6030]

I love the authenticity of this video, and I agree that there's no magic bullet solution. I too just go quiet and let the engaged kids bring their peers around. ("You guys, she's waiting.") I also agree with the importance of fun, joyful moments. Those become my currency in the bank for getting them to stay with me when it's time to buckle down. When they know I genuinely enjoy them, they want to please me and will settle pretty quickly when they need to.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

YES, Suzanne! Currency in the bank - that's exactly what it is. Great analogy!

[@happyteachermomlife4952]

You may have felt that this video was all over the place, but I think that’s part of the topic. Everything you’ve said are the thoughts that have been running through my head since the beginning of the year, but have had trouble putting into action. It may still me a bit of time to figure out this crew, yet I did get a lot out of this s video as it helped to organize my thoughts more. Thank you!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks, Thehappymomlife. Yes, teachers' brains are over-stuffed, for sure. Glad you're here with me! :)

[@salmonkill7]

Thank you, I enjoyed your helpful discussion about how to deal with talkative teenagers!! I teach high school Science at a VERY, VERY small Private School of 60 students and we have only 4 full time teachers and a few part time teachers and a couple of the teachers have only been teaching a few years like me. It's difficult to get good advice about teaching so in the summer I hunt up good teacher VLOGS or Teacher KZbin channels!! Thank you!!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

So glad you found my channel, Steven, and that you're enjoying my videos. Summer's a good time for PD. :)

[@fremontpathfinder8463]

Absolutely. Teaching is more of an art

[@nicolefrohnapfel8279]

Thank you for keeping it real! You did NOT let us down. This is what I needed to hear today!

[@juliancumbia6443]

While not a teacher (student that graduated last year) I've always found it easier as a special needs student for teachers to be slow or maybe elaborate on the instructions incase I dont understand it fully, overthink, etc.

[@WaskiSquirrel]

I'm a Physics teacher. I have a nice resonance tube. And I explain on the first day of school that I need their attention when I hit it. But, most of all, I just don't talk over them. That's the main thing. With some kids the first few weeks are rough, but most figure it out. And, speaking as a former student, holding back a whole class is wrong. It turned me against several teachers.

[@lezlieporter5960]

I love it! Thanks Laura! I’m a first year high school Special Education English teacher! I’ve been a paraeducator for 20 years and this is my first teaching assignment. One my coworkers shared your videos with me and now I’m a subscriber! Thanks for your resources, energy, straight talk, and humor! It has helped me so much during these first four weeks of school. I’m in Pasadena, California. By the way, did I mention I’m 58 years old! What was I thinking?!!!! 😳 Thanks again for sharing your gift with all of us!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Lezlie Porter Go, Lezlie! You’re a role model, for sure. 👏

[@lezlieporter5960]

Laura Randazzo Thanks Laura!

[@crystallancaster3850]

I'm glad you didn't delete this. #saveourteachers #saveourkids

[@vm6011]

This video is so timely for me. Friday I told my 7th period (that has about 6-7 very chatty across the room type girls) that I promised I would be thinking about a solution to this problem over the weekend (and I did contact parents). I listened to Laura and read all the valuable comments which gave birth to this idea I'm going to try: For this particular group of kids, I'm going to keep a tally for every single time I have to stop talking (teaching class) because they are giving each other their attention and not me. First person to reach x number (maybe 3-4?) of tallies I will send to hall (or back of room) to write "lines" as another teacher suggested. I think the "line" will be an apology written 28 times (one for each student in class): "I'm sorry that I interrupted your lesson today. I know that our class time is only 46 minutes, but because of my interruptions, we didn't get as far as other 8th grade classes. I'm sorry about that because I know you still have to do the same homework and take the same test as everyone else. I will try to remember that next time Mrs. ___ is teaching." If they don't write the "line" 28 times by the next class then they will have to do it during school lunch detention with the idea "you waste our time we take your time". If that doesn't improve the situation, then I will arrange to remove them from class to go to another teachers class for rest of period so I can continue to teach others. They will miss out on instruction but others will not. Sharing with all to ask for your feedback (I'm not an English teacher so perhaps you have more succinct line edits)...I will be sure to keep my voice quiet and stop every time I see it - and waiting for "pin drop" silence before moving on. Last year, I had similar issue but class was right before lunch so I had the option to hold them back. I don't have an option like that with this particular class. So I will try the "lines" ...

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I am fascinated by your plan and cannot wait to hear how it goes. You MUST report back in a week or two!

[@JJ-gn1kx]

For classes before lunch or dismissal, I began a "Dismissal Delay" so I quietly walk to the board, grab the Expo, look at my watch, and wait...then I write that amount of wait time on the board. If they work well afterward, I take time away or praise them and waive the delay. This works well. They start quieting each other. Other classes, late dismissal will result in an enexcused tardy to the next class. I definitely dismiss the compliant kids on time, but it gives me time to conference with the noncompliant student to reinforce expectations and tell them what will happen if it continues. Veteran teachers have seen the strategy and gave good feedback. Hope it helps.

[@JENNerationX]

Why would anyone even go into teaching expecting them to listen in silence as if your words drip gold? Of course they don’t stop 🛑 talking - 😂 Child dynamics are like a kaleidoscope make one change and you get a NEW set of emotions - as well as with: schedule changes, weather, their home personal problems etc… Your points are ON point and most seasoned teachers are vibing with you. 😂

[@abigailsides5379]

I was really encouraged today teaching my 8th grade class from hell. An experienced teacher told me she uses poker chips to manage their behavior (kind of a three strikes and you’re out situation). She said when they misbehave, she’ll quietly set one down in front of that kid. Once that kid gets to three, they know they will get a referral/write-up/parent emailed. I wasn’t sure how well it would work, but I tried it today along with a positive reinforcement leaderboard (that gets them recognition and a reward when they get a certain number of stickers), and it worked like a charm!

[@debbieleyva]

THANK YOU! Thank you for saying there is no right or perfect answer! I know this is true because if there were, a) someone would be a bazillionaire for discovering it, and b) we would never, ever hear about students talking in class because the issue would have been solved (by the aforementioned bazillionaire). Different classes may respond to different techniques. Period 3, for example, may do well with standing up front silently until they quiet down, while period 4 may need my ding bell that cost $6, and period 6 may just always be the quiet class. A couple of things I do, in addition to what Laura said: 1) I always have an entry task (aka bell ringer) that must be completed silently. That helps them settle down right away. 2) I try 109% to always have a fascinating class. If they’re interested, they’re not talking. 3) I almost always have some portion of the class when they CAN chat, i.e. during group work, partner work, or, if they haven’t been able to talk the entire period, by giving them the last one minute of class to chat quietly. If they know they’ll get a chance to talk at some point, even for a minute, they are more willing to be silent when you need them to be. (My rule during group work is to keep it 67% work to 33% chat, or some other random number I pull out of my hat, and students do really well with that.) I also move around the classroom constantly.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Yup, yup, and yup! Debbie, I think we might be teacher-twins. :)

[@mleys3248]

You are an amazing role model and have amazing social skills. I hope you have a lot teachers learning from you !!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Aw, thanks so much! I like making stuff and helping people. YT seemed like a good place to do this. :)

[@lannettestory3056]

Thank you so much for your advice! I needed to hear that there is no one fix. I knew this, but trying to survive teaching every day makes you forget the simple things!

[@charlene9207]

I am also a "get quiet" teacher. Great advice and words of wisdom as always, Laura! I also created a "corrective assignment" for those times when all of the other techniques don't work. It is basically a "you took my time, so I'll take yours" copying lines at home type thing. Students are not fans of this. I rarely use them, but if a class is particularly chatty, and my other techniques don't work, I'll tell them, "You don't want to be the ONE who gets the assignment that makes everyone else get quiet." Works like a charm! Oh, and I have a bell (less than $5 at Amazon!). :-)

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Yes, Charlene, I don't give lines, but I've been known to dawdle before dealing with an obnoxious kid who I've held back at lunch. I think you might enjoy this nugget from the blog: laurarandazzo.com/2014/12/16/oh-no-he-didnt/

[@RorysRamblings]

Maybe it's a different context but here in the desert in country Western Australia I hold whole classes back for whole class punishment. Most say it's a big no no but I feel like it's effective because even those who are innocent know my expectations and they hold others to account too.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Definitely a cultural difference. Not allowed to that here in the States. Also, kids would miss the school bus/transport. 🤷‍♀️

[@jeaniecarpenter2592]

I'm late to the game in hearing your advice, which I think is great. I love your energy and passion and am sympathetic of your decision to leave the classroom. I'm a veteran elementary teacher with almost 30 years on. When I heard you speak of calling parents to let them know their children are chatty, I realized that you may not yet be experiencing the "parental shift" that's taking place in elementary. I'd say for the last 5-10 years or so, parents get VERY upset and they COMPLETELY overreact to those phone calls. It doesn't matter how tactful teachers are anymore. If elementary teachers call home, or keep kids from going to recess for a few minutes to atone for the talking or mischief, or if we just don't give GLOWING behavioral reports, we will get an earful of unpleasant remarks.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Yikes, Jeanie. It's scary that's what's marching toward the secondary folks. Since you're not calling home, are there other actions you're having success with? I know you and I are not the only ones trying to get kids to settle in so we can get to work.

[@jeaniecarpenter2592]

@@laurarandazzo1158 Honestly, unless teachers have the support of an administrator, one that isn't themselves under pressure to make peace with all the parents, then teachers aren't notifying parents anymore. It's too great a risk. Of course, employing best practices in classroom management and instructional techniques is key. A lot of the same "quiet" signals apply in elementary. We do a lot of "Call and Responds" where I say something like, "Nice Thinkin'" and the kids respond, "Abe Lincoln!" or "Macaroni and Cheese," "Everybody Freeze!" Making sure to have a morning routine that is the same each day, so kids have behavioral expectations built in, using time outside the classroom when kids are lined up to tell them what they need to do when they walk in the door, and some routines worked out for what to do when finished are all essential. I'd argue that they're more essential than ever since we can't discipline (and by discipline I mean teach kids about behavior) anymore.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

@@jeaniecarpenter2592 Routines are paramount to launch my secondary classes smoothly, too. Thanks for this! Sidenote: Pretty sure I'm going to start yelling, "Macaroni and Cheese" every time I want people to stop what they're doing. Love that one! :)

[@jeaniecarpenter2592]

@@laurarandazzo1158 Same concept as your light-flickering, just more "elementary!" Love all your information. It's relevant in elementary as well.

[@susangood542]

No apologies necessary! I appreciate and respect you and your decision. I am entering the profession in my late fifties, also love kids and want to make a difference. Glad I found your channel.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Love the love, Susan! Glad you're here. :)

[@salmonkill7]

Good for you!! I just finished my third year of teaching and I began teaching at 58 years of age, after I retired from a 33 year Staff Scientist research job. I teach Science at a Private Christian high school and I dearly love teaching!! I appreciate these experienced teachers KZbin channel discussion and in the Summer I always hunt up good videos like this to help improve my classroom management skills! At my age I allow a little more chatting to occur if it's not disrupting the class from their work too badly. A tight hand of discipline these days isn't effective IMHO . Relationships are VERY important and this teacher advice was spot on!! I had a student that was ALWAYS talking and I ended up taking an interest in his new wheels and engaging with him one on one and I ask about his new CAMARO often and what work he has done on his car. With the improved relationship I can now just tell the student to please avoid talking for now, and he complies AND I don't have to ask very often as he's better at being silent at key times for me!! Best of luck and I hope you find the pure joy of teaching like I have found!! I will keep teaching till I am 65 and possibly up to 67 if I still feel I am being effective as a teacher!! Blessings...

[@jacquelynkarney9001]

HAHA Your annoyed teacher face. I love it

[@nikalvarado332]

Laura, we do a lot of the same strategies for the chatty Cathy's. My population is 49% Hispanic and 50% Asian. Both cultures respect family stronger than others. Familial respect is not to be taken lightly. In these cultures, not shaming the family or disrespecting “la familia” and those that deserve respect - like teachers, is almost innate to the kids I teach. When talking gets really bad, I walk up to them and almost in a whisper, and say something like, "Your behavior towards me is extremely disrespectful and I am disappointed- please, show me the respect I deserve and remind me with positive behavior why I think you are such a cool kid." Bam! They stop! Once while being observed by my principal, a kid right in front of her was off- task. I did the aforementioned. When the bell rang she said, "I don't know what you said to that kid, but he was on task for the rest of the period. Amazing! So that works me - again, it won't work for everybody...

[@sildonslife6236]

I’m not the biggest fan of the stopping technique. Once in gym class, my teacher did it for the whole period. There was a good 5 minutes where we weren’t talking, but he never started. We gave up and started to play a hand clapping game.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Yeah, sounds like he missed the sweet spot and should've launched back into class within that first minute. I subbed for a P.E. class just one time in 20 years and it was a w-i-l-d ride with 70 kids in one class. Maybe he fell into a reverie, enjoying those extended minutes of calm and quiet after so many years of so much noise? Oh! :D

[@shool4school729]

I think this is a great video because it is honest. Not one way works for all kids, all teachers, all classes, every time. It just doesn't. I always explain expectations and try to have grace and patience. Sometimes kids are talking because they are helping a classmate with a question. And sometimes they are off task. And sometimes they are just really into the lesson. It is not a one size fits all solution. I usually will do a 5-4-3-2-1 countdown because it typically gets them quiet in 5 seconds or less. But in some classes, that is not necessary. Some classes quiet down the minute I walk to the front. But I completely agree that kids need time to talk and when they get that regularly, they will be quiet in the moments I need them to be. I completely relate to your sentiments here.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks, Shool 4 School. There's comfort in knowing that others out there have found the same experience. It's tough to advise new teachers to "read the room" before deciding which approach to use, but that's exactly what we do - all day long, changing things hour by hour sometimes. As always, thanks for being part of my teacher tribe. Glad you're here. :)

[@marystecho2844]

Just found you. Loved your videos. Watching even though retired now due to health - still really miss it. My first teaching assignments was in a high school setting. Gr 6 to university prep. I generally taught English and art. By the way, the school was a provincial school for the deaf. It is not a quiet place to work.! I related to many of you ideas as I also used them. Here is one more - I had a timer that was given to a student ( often a JJ type ). Then they were told that I needed 7 minutes ( or 2 or 11 whatever ) of their attention. They could stop me if I ran over the time! BUT. If there was any talking, the time was reset and I started over from the beginning each time. I had great results. The kids cracked down on the others. The talkers had no audience. The kids did the eye rolling at interrupters. So during a period I would have mini units of instruction s and lessons interwoven with applications, discussions, activities. ...... My instructional time gradually expanded ( “I need 17 minutes for this one”). The kids really liked knowing . Wouldn’t we like this at a staff meeting? Some teachers talk too much. Some don’t keep lectures and instructions “neat’. Training to be a teacher of the deaf , I was required to pre- write everything I planned to say along with the response I expected from the student. Like you said the responsibility was on me. Keep your necessary ‘talk time’ short and explicit to the goal at hand. This leaves more time later for questions, expansion, individual help, collaboration, ..... and fun with the kids!

[@arnoldkanarek3585]

I tell my students that I know all of their tricks because I have used them when I was a kid.

[@yolandimare1]

Career goals: i want to be like you. This is one of your best videos ever.

[@jessicahall7774]

I'm not Kelly, but you didn't let me down! I switched schools after teaching my entire career in one place for the past 8 years, and I feel like a first year teacher again as far as classroom management is concerned. It's a bit of a blow to my pride, to be honest, but I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who struggles, and there's so much affirmation in acknowledging that there's no "magic" solution!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

You're not the only one to have to re-boot at a new campus, Jessica. It does take awhile to rebuild your reputation and I, too, have felt that ego-blow, but Year 2 at your new school will be so much easier than Year 1 once the kids start to know, like, and trust you. Hang in there! ;)

[@tannyabryand5664]

I love this! Thanks for the video. Totally not a let-down! Very good advice!

[@khanhhoang4078]

I really appreciate your help and advice.

[@bethhutchinson4230]

Look into Harkness approach for portion of education.

[@mimiorozco3709]

Thank you for sharing this video, It Is truly helpful to me. I've been a bit hard on myself.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Oh yeah, Mimi, you're far from alone with this. :)

[@stevebaker341]

OMG Great suggestions. You are a great teacher. The best suggestion is about developing a good relationship/understanding with students from the very beginning.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks so much! Absolutely, it's so much easier to start off on the right foot than to try to repair a sprained ankle.

[@smilekyle25]

I don't normally comment on ANY video... But I loved, everything you talked about. Such insight, I believe my son's teacher is on the right track. Hope you are doing well

[@novaguy1968]

Actually, it is biologically possible to listen and speak together: witness simultaneous translators. ;) But to your point, getting them to go quiet is exponentially easier than preventing it to begin with. I do your "reasonable peer voice" as well, typically accompanied by a raised hand. Students begin raising their hands one by one and going silent. If it's a particularly disruptive class, especially at the beginning of the year, students go out into the hall and line up along the wall, and then when I hear 30 seconds of Silence we go into the classroom. If they can't sit down in their seats and control themselves and get to work, we stand up we go outside we do it all over again. Earlier this year I had to do that four times. By the fifth time, the reasonable voices put pressure on the other ones to stop talking so that they wouldn't have to go through that again.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I also read in a Facebook group about thinking of those disruptively chatty kids as time thieves, a phrase that's stayed with me. They are literally stealing the education away from their classmates. Can't stand for that! As for real-time translators, those folks are super-human and our ordinary biological rules don't apply to them. ;)

[@novaguy1968]

@@laurarandazzo1158 yes! Time thieves! Exactly! As we enter week 3, I'll keep putting the screws to them until they can follow the routines. This is not my first year teaching middle school, but it is my first year teaching 7th grade. We shall see.;)

[@laurarandazzo1158]

novaguy1968 Stay strong, my friend.

[@turnersblessedmess1434]

Public school teachers are awesome. I can not imagine having to teach the children of others. I homeschool my six children and that is enough. Too many rules for teaching public school.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

ALL teachers are awesome, Turner Christian Academy! And I imagine your six present plenty of challenges to keep you busy, too. Thanks for watching and commenting. Glad you're here with me! :)

[@Dablkwid0w2008]

Public school teachers especially the veterans are superheroes to me...

[@jontees4071]

Thanks for this video (and this channel)! I'm a student teacher for high school English. I have SUCH A HARD TIME not being AWKWARD when my students are interruptive. I hate admitting this, but I often feel super intimidated by my students. I need to get over that and have a more commanding presence. This video is helpful.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Glad it helped, Jon. We all go through that feeling, so don't feel like you're alone. In time, you'll start to find your authentic teaching personality and confidence will follow. Stay strong! :)

[@bigcitycommute]

It IS a good video and thank you! Those kids like "JJ" need to know that they have some valuable personality traits and they can use those in a career one day. I tell those kids not to get a job sitting behind a desk all day in a cubicle. It just won't suit them. (It wouldn't suit me, either!) It's hard to teach them sometimes, especially when there are several in a class, but we have to find a way to make it work and keep our sanity while making sure they learn. Yep, it's definitely an art form!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Absolutely, Big City Commute. As I've aged, I also can relate more and more to JJ's struggles to sit-and-get. If a staff meeting, video, or even a haircut pushes much past the half-hour mark, I start to get antsy and have to get up and move, stretch my legs a bit. I think a lot of us have more in common with JJ than we might think.

[@rosemarydoyle4056]

I love your energy and how much you care about your kids. Is there anyway you could upload a video of you in action in the classroom? I'm in my second year of teaching and am still finding my teaching style. The other English teacher I work with is an awesome teacher to follow but is very strict with her students, producing 'robot kids' as you put it. Would love to see how you are!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Aw, thanks for this note, Rosemary. Unfortunately, my current contract prevents me from filming or posting anything from work on social media. I have to be very careful to keep a solid wall between my real-life work life and my online work life. It's weird to be me. Sorry.

[@sandydrewserrano4855]

Going silent works.

[@nicolematino7143]

This is great! I totally agree!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks for watching, Nicole! :)

[@elizabethhudson1700]

I could have used this video 3 years ago when I was teaching in an inner city school. I have to say we had a good relationship and they tried to stop talking but when they did, it go louder and louder....French is definitely not their most important class.

[@amyeli33]

I do the basic things as a substitute teacher. For example, I say, "As soon as we are quiet, "Voices off," "I'll wait," etc. Sometimes, I will clap or use the phrases the teachers use to get their classes's attention. I tend to have a hard time with some 5th and 6th grade classes. They seem to be more chatty and aren't really my favorite age group, I will admit. I prefer kids who are in the 2nd-4th grade, but often have to work with several grade levels as a special ed teacher or music teacher though.

[@jamesmartin9123]

High school where I substitute..you may be waiting a long time..I just go to each desk and give instructions individually.

[@lepenn326]

Thank you for this video. I switched careers and went from being a social worker to a high school teacher and this is my first year teaching. My 7th period class has 29 students and it gets very loud and chatty everyday! Some of what you've said I've done, but you've given some other great tips as well that I need to try. Thanks so much again. Please don't delete the video! You really are a blessing to others, especially like myself.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Congratulations on the launch of your new chapter, lepenn326! Please don't feel like you're alone in this. The last period of the day is always, ALWAYS, the loudest. Stay strong, my friend. :)

[@major77493]

If I 'go silent' it just gives them the opportunity to talk louder and longer..eventually consuming the whole period. The shame is the preteen and teenage brain is no different than in the 60's, 70's, and 80's ... and this didn't happen..it just didn't. Current teen behavior is the result of accommodating such behavior...American education has been accommodated into oblivion...proof? ...do the comparative analysis between American education and other countries. JJ talks because "we" made him who he is.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I hear you, Michael - silence doesn't work for everyone. You'll definitely need to switch gears to find techniques that work for you and your kids. As for JJ, I'm less concerned about the cause and more concerned about how to make this work for all of the kids in my room in each particular hour. My sphere of influence doesn't reach beyond the four walls of my room, so that's where I focus my energy. Fixing the broken US educational system? That feels way beyond my intellectual capabilities.

[@naureendhananishivji3179]

Loved this, thank you!

[@yardmama3660]

Good stuff here. Exactly what I try to do. Chatty Matties aren’t always “ bad kids”. These are often our future leaders.

[@Dablkwid0w2008]

They are more interpersonal learners

[@DreamlandHollywood]

It is absolutely intentional in my rooms! I have kids who deliberately overpower my voice just to...idk...see what I'll do. Yeah, it totally depends on what's going on. And no one I have ever worked with has any talent to break down these behaviors and solve them.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I hear you. I made this video four+ years ago and since then I've seen a significant shift. I wish I had better answers. Without admin. and parental support of classroom rules, how can there be order?

[@DreamlandHollywood]

@@laurarandazzo1158 exactly, yet its all over our evaluations! At the Exemplary level, they start to include the behavior of the students, not just our actions...GAH!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

@@DreamlandHollywood Ugh 🙄

[@baileyandjana]

Love this video! Sooo true on so many points!! Just wanted to add that one thing that works for me, especially starting class, is “Clap once if you hear my voice”. It really is the only thing that works most of the time! The kids respond when they hear the clap! Other than that, you are right on the money that it should be handled on a case by case basis! Thanks so much for sharing this video!

[@LittleAllyse]

I love you and your style. I identify with you. And thank you so much.

[@MrOoglebog]

My psychology teacher would play a high frequency ringing sound over speakers when the class would keep talking. Worked pretty well to be honest haha.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Now that's something I never tried... 🤣

[@loriskyrud2003]

Your amazing. Thank you! so helpful for a new teacher..

[@laurarandazzo1158]

So glad you found my channel, Lori!

[@ramonadgray3490]

Thanks for your advice! You seem like a good 👍 teacher.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks, Ramona. I try. :)

[@toota1052]

Thanks

[@dralbertpakin8895]

30 8th graders in one room? The boys talk but the girls do their work. How do you get them to stop talking and also the boys are disrepectful towards me. I also have a few other classes in lower grades that won't stop talking either. The struggle is real. I teach every child in a school if 392 of them.

[@scarlettstott7570]

I have noticed that with boys especially its very important to get to know them as people to build the rapport. If they like you they are more likely to want to be well behaved for you

[@maylenesabuco1355]

Thank you Laura and Godbless you 😍

[@clivedern3254]

This is a very common issue for teachers and yes it can be extremely draining. Just imagine trying to conduct a board meeting like that.

[@a.m.6847]

Those student need to leave to be quiet the moment that the teacher stands in front of the class and say "class, quiet." If the students continue to talk, she should create a consequence like assuming that they are ready for a quiz then pull out a ready made quiz and test them. The logic is "Students who talk all the time are ready to be tested.

[@angeliatsai5744]

I am a student not a teacher but anyways there was one time, I got sent to hall for 20 minutes of standing facing the wall for being so noisy in class. I am extrovert just like talking. It was horrible experience.

[@iidannaaa4956]

I am so lucky to find you

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I feel lucky to be found! 😀

[@jeeeunestherjang]

It’s my first week as a new teacher at a DOE and I already am planning on quitting after a year because the rowdiness is sucking the life out of me.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

It can be so, so hard. Been there. Switching campuses or grade levels is also sometimes a career-saver. 🤷‍♀️

[@ohiovalleyelevatorsofflift3443]

I won't be worrying about this anytime soon. :)

[@HaliteHorizons]

My teacher is confusing because lots of my friends do this and my teacher doesn’t like it but I don’t talk like at all because I’m an EXTREME introvert and a quiet person and my teacher hates it but if I want or need to do something I’ll talk to the teacher and if I’m asked to talk I will but I won’t talk at all otherwise because my teacher is 50 and I’m 13 so we have nothing in common and have nothing to talk about. I got my school report and it said I’m good at every subject and ahead of everyone but I pretty much failed everything (I go to an Australian school) because I don’t talk that much but I’ll join in with group and class discussions though if I’m not 100% sure on the awnser and I think someone else is I don’t even bother because I don’t like being wrong or saying the wrong awnser for something

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Jacey Evans Interesting, Jacey. Maybe you’ll find comfort in this TEDTalk: m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWGuiohon5WHg5Y Hope this helps!

[@onoesitsafurry7152]

I have no idea why I clicked on this video... Great advice but i'm a student..... At class I was silent the whole time, taking notes, then the one time my friend poked me with her finger and whispered a "What are we doing?" And I say "Science, page 78" The teacher looks at me and went like "WHOSE TALKING!!!" And the whole class pointed at me. ): my teacher moved me three times, just because of my annoying stressing out peers, and its only the beginning of second quarter.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Ack! That's the worst. I guess one silver lining is that this is evidence that you're the type of person that other people notice. That'll serve you well in grown-up life.

[@onoesitsafurry7152]

@@laurarandazzo1158 :D

[@erinkillelea977]

This was fabulous!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks, Erin! :)

[@costaricaalnatural1986]

Thanks for share your experience!!

[@costaricaalnatural1986]

Do know a biology teacher to talk with?

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Costa Rica Al natural Sorry, I don’t know of any science teacher KZbinrs. 🤷‍♀️

[@costaricaalnatural1986]

One more question. There are biology teachers at high school? Or just sciene teacher? Thanks for you time

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Costa Rica Al natural Oh, yes, biology teachers, chemistry teachers, geology, physics...we have them all.

[@seba1435]

Well, I would get tantrum when they would start yelling and talking

[@sub2sped822]

I love your use of sticky wicket. You’re not a Sorkin fan you?

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Sub2SpEd Ha! Not sure about Sorkin. It’s just something my Mom used to say. :)

[@sub2sped822]

Ah, cool. Well the Sorkin thing is from an episode of the West Wing when a situation arose in an episode Josh (a staffer) refers to it as a “sticky wicket.” Apparently is a term in cricket referring to a damp pitch.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Sub2SpEd Oh! That makes so much sense. I learned something today! :)

[@yourlocalkaren561]

I am 14 and started a part time job as a class (roughly 12 students) tutor. They are roughly 7 year olds and have to teach them for 6 hours a day (9am- 5pm with breaks) for 10 days as a holiday program. I don't know how to make them behave because when I use common strategies they ignore me, and when I use unique strategies they think that I am a joke.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Wow, Gibb's Mansion, that's quite a job for someone your age. I'm hopeful you have an adult supervisor who can help. Unfortunately, my experience is limited to tweens/teens and I'm not credentialed to teach 7-year-olds. Standing in your shoes, I'm thinking I would overplan activities because any down time will likely result in chaos. Keep 'em working. Good luck!

[@yourlocalkaren561]

@@laurarandazzo1158 thank you... the second day was a lot better than the first.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Gibb's Mansion So glad to hear this! :)

[@tapdance6767]

Do you have advice for when these tricks don’t work? My class will continue talking because they do not want to do any work. They are not motivated by peer pressure and happily continue wasting time for the entire class period.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

So frustrating. I'm guessing you've called parents/guardians?

[@tapdance6767]

@@laurarandazzo1158 Yes, but there is a lot of excuses and coddling. I’m not sure how to handle it. Edit to add: it’s sad because I have so many fun things planned.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

@@tapdance6767 What age? Subject area?

[@tapdance6767]

@@laurarandazzo1158 ELA 5th grade.

[@FranY16]

I say "waterfall, waterfall" and students respond with "shhhh." That usually works, but not always. Depends on the class.

[@ryankavanaugh2903]

Francis S.Y. Nope that’s the dumbest shit I’ve ever heard

[@redpillpharmacist]

Best poster I ever saw in a classroom read: "No student has the right to deny another student's education." Interrupt someone else's learning experience once - a warning. Next time - you're going to the hallway After that - the dean for discipline "Most kids want to hear what I'm teaching." How unaware can you be? If that were true, schools would be graduating scholars rather than self-absorbed imbeciles who can't manage a part-time job at McDonald's. You are not there to be their entertainment. Parents are paying your generous salary, benefits, and pension package so that their kids will be sufficiently educated to be able to earn a living that will support his/her family. Take a trip to Abeka Academy in Pensacola, FL. Each teacher has total command of his/her classroom. Ditto for Pensacola Christian College.

[@pcs9016]

It's very challenging when in a school with scholars who have behavioral issues. Way too many. I feel defeated.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

I get it. There's only so much one classroom teacher can do.

[@loriskyrud2003]

Great Video!! :)

[@treasuresofglory9615]

There's no perfect solution. What works for one class may not work for another class. I want them to listen to instructions, but I want them to talk when done. I teach writing, so I need them to partner up and group up.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Exactly, Treasures of Glory. It's a time-and-place thing. We have to teach them when it's the right time to talk and when it's the right time to listen. Actually, I know a lot of adults who could use that sort of schooling, too. ;)

[@jean-mariesimpson8989]

Have you been peeking in my Hs English classes ?!?!?🤣🤣

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Pretty sure this is every classroom, Jean-Marie. We're far from alone.

[@JimmytheCastillian]

Start 1st with this: STOP calling them kids! Unless they are in elementary and that is debatable.

[@realrx2977]

I’m sorry we’re not perfect. Sometimes it’s the ADULTS who are being “disrespectful” and “talking back”

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Oh, absolutely, none of us is perfect - teachers, students, aides, administrators - and we're all worthy of respect and grace, esp. when times get tough. If we keep our hearts open to that, a lot of these problems evaporate. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@albertoramos9586]

You are awesome 👌

[@anissamacias4187]

Any advice on classroom management as a new 1st year teacher? I am a middle school band director. I feel like I do the things you were talking about but I’m dealing with kids who want their old teacher back and don’t want to be in class. I’m the same way, I’m not a yeller but I don’t know what else to try.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Middle school band director?!! Holy moly, Anissa, that's a whole new level of madness. Still, I do have a series on classroom management that might have a few useful nuggets: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3aZqJdje7t7hqc Stay strong! :)

[@bincabee]

Hi Anissa: Congrats on your first year of being a band director! I was a first year middle/high school band director last year. I totally get that frustration. Last year my 6th graders were resistant in what I wanted because they would always talk about their previous director as 5th graders. Unfortunately, whether it’s your first year as a new director or first year at a different school there will be that backlash (just hearing from other teacher friends.) This part will be the general part of my advice: A big thing is to be patient and build a relationship with them. They will be that way for awhile. They are not going to get their old teacher back which is something that they will eventually learn/understand. You keep doing what you are doing and they will abide to you in time. During this time is where you really want to practice what you want in the room: how do they walk in, how and when will they ask a question, let them know what is appropriate to say. Reinforce the POSITIVES. Honestly, that can be hard, but when you point out which kids are doing what you want others will eventually follow. I’m not sure where you are at as far as teaching the instrument and theory, but make sure you are not on something for a very long time. That can be an open invitation to classroom management problems. Here is a simple plan that I went by: 1. Warning 2. Approximation (be close to the kid or kids being disruptive) 3. Phone call home 4. Set up a parent/teacher meeting with kid Don’t wait for the problem to go away, attend to it as soon as it happens. Follow up with the kid afterwards and just ask if there is anything going on and to check for an understanding as to why they were in trouble. Send home either a positive small hand written letter or an email to their parents about how the kid is doing. Find something about them that they are doing right. Find one kid everyday and let parents know how they are doing in class. I didn’t realize how much this made a difference until I tried it. I was afraid of talking to parents but you are a professional and you want to make your presence known to the parents. Build a relationship with them and I know you will find that behavior will begin to change. If there is a problem I was taught to do the compliment sandwich: positive, problem that is happening/help find a solution, component. Check in with other veteran teachers that you can trust. Again, I did that later in the year when I wish I would’ve done it earlier. Ask how they are in their classes or if you can during a small part of your conference or lunch, go visit students in their classes (with permission from the teacher.) That shows that you care about how they are doing in their other classes. Go to their events if you can. If they ask you or if you ask what they are involved in. I know I’m not a veteran teacher with a lot of classroom management tricks, but these are little things I tried that made my days in classes slightly better. :)

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Bianca Salazar Thanks for this rich note, Bianca. Wise words here for ALL subject matter teachers!

[@bincabee]

Thank you, Laura! In Texas, band directors especially, really do help one another. I get ideas on teaching from other core subject teachers, though! Also, I didn’t watch your video before I typed this out, but a lot of what I said was covered in your video! 😅😂 Great content! 👍🏼

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Bianca Salazar Nah, Bianca, we all discover these tricks in our own time, so they belong to each of us. ;) And - I agree! - some of my best ideas come from adapting things I learn from folks in other departments. Let's call it the hive mind.

[@plerpplerp5599]

Kids learn to walk and talk on their own. And then, in school, they are told to shut up and sit down. 😂

[@rahmaali4045]

1) why it is happening. Is the child excited about what you are saying? 2) what I’m I going to do about it. Remember for the sake of order hands must be up, one person talk at a time. You can’t talk and listen at the same time so when I am giving instructions I need there to be pin drop silence. It is rare kids are intentionally disrespectful if so you need to rebuild your relationship with student. You cannot out shout kids. So go quiet. And wait. Get annoyed teacher face. Wait till other kids try to get them to be quiet. It really is just thirty seconds. Don’t call people out and just wait. I do that once I have strong relationship with class. Sometimes flick lights on and off. Early in the year, tell expectations. When I am standing right here I am ready to talk to you. You have to model and teach them. Disruptive kids, never hold the whole class. But will hold back individuals- waste their time lol. Call parents- kid repeatedly off task. Kids need reminding and need to see where your line is and will follow through. Bring them always closer to you but if you sit them far it will make things worse. Sometimes make chatty kid the helper. Validate them and tell them you notice them. See if child needs testing. Always stay positive and never tell kids to shut up. Mutual respect gets you so much further. Whenever possible I just try to be reasonable. Fold in fun times. I don’t want to have robot children. Learning is noisy. Get comfortable with it.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Nice recap, Magda. :)

[@blciffa]

Your facial expressions crack me up!

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Thanks, B Peltier. I'm a terrible poker player, as you might imagine. :)

[@ceciliarules411]

You remind me of my English 9/10 teacher

[@laxman1423]

I'd like to take some credit as the part of "kid who won't stop talking"

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Davis Talbert Pretty sure you were the prototypical Talker that I mentioned in this vid, Davis. PLEASE tell me that you landed a career in sales. ❤️

[@laxman1423]

@@laurarandazzo1158 Still working on it, but glad to see we're on the same page there

[@kaleighmiller690]

Coming from a student we talk because we feel like what we are being taught isn’t something we will need in the real world.

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Well, then, I'm thinking we need to fix that.

[@mrp21_]

Easy! Say, “WHO EVER STOPS TALKING, GETS THE LOLLIPOP” it’ll work, I promise 😂😂😂😂

[@laurarandazzo1158]

Smooth JamJen Funny!

[@elajanevalencia887]

When students dont stop talking I really dont know how to react all im thinking is God take me now. 🙄

[@laurarandazzo1158]

We'll all been there, Ella. I've been known to turn around to face the board and talk to God in my regular speaking voice. The kids are so curious that they stop talking to each other to listen and then ask me if I'm okay. I also sometimes start talking and moving like a robot. It makes them laugh and then we (sometimes) can get back to business. No one said teaching teens was going to be easy, eh?

[@elajanevalencia887]

@@laurarandazzo1158 never easy 😢

[@realrx2977]

Sorry we’re not perfect