An important part of classroom management involves your listening skills. Too many teachers do not actually listen to what their students are saying, and the kids quickly pick up on this. It is in your best interest to hone your listening skills because just the simple act of listening can help calm an escalating situation.

Active listening is a learned skill that allows you to fully listen and respond to others in the most effective manner possible. It involves several steps. First, give the speaker your full attention. When that person has finished speaking, repeat in your own words what you heard. Then give the speaker a chance to correct your interpretation. This cuts down on misunderstandings, and it makes the speaker feel that you are really listening. Here is an example of active listening in action:

Student: “What's the answer to number six?”

Teacher: “You'd rather not figure out number six by yourself?”

Student: “I don't know which one is the correct answer.”

Teacher: “You don't want to try and figure it out?”

Student: “Is it ‘red’ or ‘blue’?”

Teacher: “You want me to tell you the answer?”

Student: “Well, how can I find out which one is right?”

By first letting the student see that you understand, and then by adding a little humor, you make it clear that you are not going to give out the answer but you are willing to help the student work it out.