How to manage behaviour - Anticipate Compliance

Generally most students want to behave and very few really want the tension of getting into trouble. So if you give instructions, anticipate that the student will comply and act as if this is the case.


For example, in your travels around the room you notice Gina is reading a book and not doing her math. You take the least intrusive path, “Thanks for putting that book away, Gina.” (NB – Closed request) Continue to move around the room as if you know Gina is going to comply.

Close your request. You can close off a request by prefacing your statement with an expectation of compliance. Such statements like “Thank you for closing the windows for  me, Paul”. Few students are likely to refuse a request phrased in such a way.

Gina feels your expectation and 99.9% of the time she will comply. She is not going to get any mileage if she doesn't because you have already moved on!

Consider the alternative action. You say the same thing, but stand at Gina’s desk with arms on your hips and a snarl ready on your lips. You’re ready for a fight and Gina is likely to accommodate you.

(This tip comes from 50 Ways to be A Better relief Teacher. You can get your own copy - 100% free. - CLICK HERE)