Have you read Dr. Harry Wong's book "The First Days of School"? If not, put your coffee down and run to the library, bookshop or both. Or, better yet, download it (for a fee) from http://www.effectiveteaching.com/cart.php. It will be worth every penny. It is without comparison the best and most useful book I have ever read about how to become a successful, effective teacher. Here are some quotes from the book:
“It is the teacher — what the teacher knows and can do — that is the most significant factor in student achievement.” Harry K. Wong
“In an effective classroom students should not only know what they are doing, they should also know why and how.” Harry K. Wong
My very favorite Wong quote is: "The three most important words for a teacher are: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation". If you are well prepared, really well prepared, then you will have no discipline problems. Your students will learn and achieve. They will enjoy learning and you will enjoy teaching.
He has a cure for every problem. Really. And it works too. Really.
Have a great evening!
:-) CoffeeAddict
PS! Take his test to see if you are an effective teacher! Go to: http://www.effectiveteaching.com/cart.php?m=content&page=7. Good Luck!
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Comments
yes, preperation is the golden key:)
Hi CoffeeAddict,
As soon as I read your post, I googled Harry K. Wong and learnt about his reputation in education world. Although I personally think there is no magic wand or a magic touch to surmount all problems, I'm sure his suggestions are beneficial. And, I have to say that I totally agree with him that preparation is a key point to diminish problems. I'm also of the same opinion that students should know what, how and why they are doing and learning. Because, this will plant needs to learn and it'll end up with highly motivated students.
Bülent
I have read many good books about teaching but Mr. Wong's is still my "bible".
:-) CoffeeAddict