The purpose of this preliminary study was to examine the extent to which the relation between teacher reported (N = 26) teaching efficacy and observations of classroom quality varied as a function of a specific classroom characteristic, classroom adversity, a measure of classroom level hardship that includes factors such as student challenges with…

Aiming to inform teaching practices and understand cultural differences, we examined praise practices of high- and low-quality preschool teachers in China. As part of a broader project, we purposefully selected three high-quality and three low-quality teachers based upon their Pre-K CLASS ratings and self-reports, and conducted qualitative…

Good classroom management not only increases the amount of time students spend in learning but also reduces the time teachers spend supervising routine activities and helps to prevent discipline problems. Recent research on effective management practices suggests that the following factors are particularly important: (1) planning; (2) routines and…

Observation of two third-grade teachers during the opening days of school revealed different approaches to organizing their classes and instructing pupils on correct classroom behavior. The results of observation are given in narrative form and analyzed. Five principles that characterized the most effective teacher are presented: (1) The teacher…

In light of the importance of a teacher's managerial ability and the use of small and large group instruction to increase direct instruction time, teachers should apply specific managerial skills in their reading classes to ensure student learning. Successful teachers get to know their students, set instructional goals, and make sure students know…

This report summarizes and discusses findings about classroom management from two studies, the Junior High Management Improvement Study (JMIS) and the earlier Junior High Classroom Organization Study (JHCOS). These two studies involved long-term observation in more than 160 classes in a variety of subject areas. Results of the two studies are…

From observation-based effective schools research, five essential correlates have been identified: (1) purpose; (2) measurement; (3) leadership; (4) expectations; and (5) climate. This paper briefly describes all correlates and then focuses on climate and expectations as applied to improving science instruction. Although climate originally…

Reports a study of the teaching of basic reading skills in secondary schools. Through systematic observations of classrooms, several key variables were identified which related to reading gains measured by the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills. Several administrative practices important to successful remedial reading programs are also delineated.…

This manual provides guidelines and activities for organizing and managing junior high school classes. The first five chapters are devoted to the topic of getting ready for the beginning of the school year; the last four chapters suggest guidelines and activities that are helpful in maintaining a management system. Chapter 1 deals with organizing…

Classroom observation of 28 third-grade teachers illustrated the management and planning strategies that differentiate effective teachers from less effective teachers. Effective managers communicated a workable system of rules and procedures, monitored students carefully, and were consistent in treating inappropriate behavior. Less effective…

Small group instruction and circuit programming can eliminate some of the problems of high student/teacher ratio in gymnastics class. (MJB)

Describes nontraditional, creative teaching methods that celebrate differences among students. Contrasts these classrooms with programs that force teachers and learners into mediocre sameness using teacher-proof approaches that have been proven wrong for both teachers and learners. Uses personal examples from kindergarten and first-grade…

To be a competent teacher, the school environment must be organized to preserve a system of student behavior and group functioning which allows the teacher to select the activities in which the group will engage. This is often called "maintaining control" by teachers. Means of organizing the school context to affect student behavior are…

Data for this study were collected by observing 60 secondary school English classes over a four-month period. The principals of six schools chose 15 of their most effective teachers to be observed. Four questions were addressed: (1) How do teachers and students spend classroom time together?; (2) What instructional processes are used most often?;…

In outline form, this monograph presents an analysis of specific cues that can assist those responsible for instruction to develop and analyze classroom environments that maximize opportunities for students to grow. It is divided into the following four areas: (1) evidence of effective organization; (2) evidence of effective resource management;…