Book Review of 1-2-3 Magic for Teachers
Effective Classroom Discipline Pre-K through Grade 8
Jun 6, 2009
Every teacher must face the task of keeping students attentive, quiet, and working during school hours. Unfortunately, many teachers find classroom discipline is almost impossible to master. In his book, 1-2-3 Magic for Teachers, Effective Classroom Discipline Pre-K through Grade 8, Thomas W. Phelan, Ph.D., shows how it can be as simple as counting to three.
Classroom Discipline Can and Should be Positive
The very first chapter begins with a scenario of a student pressuring a teacher to allow him to leave the class to get a drink of water. The student cajoles and argues with the teacher. This happens every day, in classrooms around the globe, unless the teacher has an effective classroom discipline plan in place.
Effective classroom management allows the student and teacher to maintain dignity and keep things on a positive note. This behavior management plan forces the students to take accountability and responsibility for their own actions. No one gets angry or upset, because the consequences are fair, predictable, and effective.
Classroom Management Problems Covered in 1-2-3 Magic
Teachers must be masters at getting students to stop unacceptable behavior and start desirable behavior, both in the classroom, on the playground, and walking between classes. Topics covered in the book include:
- How to get students to start desirable behaviors and stop unacceptable ones.
- The two most common and biggest discipline mistakes.
- What to do when two students have a conflict.
- Six types of testing and manipulation all children use.
- How to handle transitions; arriving, leaving, and passing between classes.
- How to have perfectly behaved students on field trips and at assemblies.
- Collaborating with parents.
- Building positive relationships with students.
Teachers and Parents Can Both Use 1-2-3 Magic
Using this system in the classroom will show teachers and parents how simple it is to encourage and reinforce positive behavior and do away with disruptive behavior. The system can be used with any teaching or parenting style. It is equally effective with children as young as 2 years old as it is with students in middle school.
The nature of this discipline plan allows students to maintain their dignity and self-esteem and allows everyone to be treated in a respectful manner. When using this classroom management plan, teachers can expect to have a more peaceful classroom, less disruptive behavior, and more learning and time spent on task. As the title suggests, it works like magic and it’s as simple as 1-2-3!
Phelan, Thomas W. Ph.D. and Schonour, Sarah Jane M.A., 1-2-3 Magic for Teachers : Effective Classroom Discipline Pre-K through Grade 8, Glen Ellyn, IL: ParentMagic Inc., 2004
ISBN: 1-889140-17-1
For more classroom success articles, see:
Organizing Tips That Teach Student Study Skills
How to Plan a Classroom Seating Arrangement
Classroom Instruction That Works
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