Mastering the Art of Giving Clear Directions in Elementary Classrooms

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Show Notes:

Raise your hand if you think you’re being crystal clear when giving directions, but afterwards find yourself answering multiple questions about the instructions you just gave. If you’re like me, I’m raising my hand very, very high! This was challenging for me when I was in the classroom, and it took me a few years to figure out what I needed to do to fix this issue. 

One thing I learned is that even though it seems like you’re the reason they’re not listening or paying attention, in reality, it usually has nothing to do with you at all. There’s a multitude of reasons why students may not be listening. A lot of these reasons include outside factors, their developmental stage, and personal emotional state. But the good news? There’s simple and effective ways to regain their focus when you're giving clear directions.

As teachers, we all know the importance of giving clear directions to your students. Without them, it can lead to misunderstandings, chaos, and ultimately affect student learning outcomes. However, all of that can be avoided by implementing strategies that streamline direction delivery. I always want to give you the tools you need to be efficient in a comprehensive classroom management plan, so in today’s episode, I’m sharing 15 strategies that help you master the art of giving clear directions in elementary classrooms. 

All of these strategies are simple and effective so you’ll never have to repeat directions again. Want a full list of these strategies? Make sure you join The Classroom Management Club! We have resources, trainings, and support for all your classroom management needs.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• The importance of giving clear directions and the impact it can have on student learning
• Reasons why students may not be listening and simple solutions to fix that
• 15 strategies that streamline your directions for better focus in class
• Examples of how to use these strategies in your own classroom

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode:

• Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist
• Join the Classroom Management Club. 
• Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card by leaving a review for Beginning Teacher Talk on Apple Podcasts!
• Join our Beginning Teacher Talk Private Facebook Group. 
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram.
• NEW! Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok.    

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast, Beginning Teacher Talk, and creator of the innovative literacy program for 1st and 2nd grade, Dogs Help Kids Read and Succeed, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com and at howdogshelpkids.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• Episode 54, How to Give Directions So Your Students Actually Follow Them (The First Time)
• Episode 159, Natural Consequence: What Do You Do When Kids Don’t Listen?
• Episode 9, The Best Classroom Management Technique Ever: How to Get Your Entire Class’s Attention Instantly
• Episode 36, Your Classroom Management Re-Start

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