Start Commands
START COMMANDS
Why should I do it?
- As classroom managers, teachers regularly use commands to direct students to start and stop activities. Instructors find commands to be a crucial tool for classroom management, serving as instructional signals that help students to conform to the teacher’s expectations for appropriate behaviors
When should I do it?
- When beginning a new subject, during transitions, calling class to begin work, starting reading, initiating a new task, lining up for lunch, quieting students down to begin class or work, etc
How do I do it?
- Here are some effective start commands to use in the classroom:
- I’ll begin as soon as you are seated
- I’ll be glad to start as soon as you show me that you are ready
- I’ll be working from page 54
- I’ll be lining people up as soon as it is quiet
- I allow people to sharpen pencils when I am not giving directions
- Feel free to go to the restroom when I’m not giving directions
- You are welcome to stay with us as long as you and others are not being bothered
- Feel free to stay with us when you can keep your hands to yourself
- I give full credit for papers turned in on time
- I’ll listen as soon as your voice is as calm as mine
- I’ll be glad to discuss this when respect is shown
- All of those who arrive on time go home on time
- I’ll be glad to accept all papers that meet the neatness standard for this room
- All owners of neat desks are welcome to join us at recess
- I loan paper to those who have not borrowed before
- Feel free to borrow from anyone but me
- You may go out as soon as you have your coat
- You may stay with us if you can give up on that behavior
- Feel free to come back to the room as soon as you are calm
- Those who can follow the rules are welcome to play the game
- I’ll be glad to discuss this with you as soon as the arguing stops
- All of those who can handle the paintbrushes right are welcome to join us in the project
- All of those who remember permission slips are welcome to go on the field trip
