Okay, so for a week now (and longer outside my blog) I've basically bitched about students not meeting my expectations and just being brats in general. And while all of this is legitimate, it's time I reflect on me and my presence in the classroom.
Does my negativity spread through the room and just make things worse? Of course!!!
Have I been getting lazy and not planning as engaging of lessons lately? Yeah, maybe.
Could I better model the type of behavior I expect from my students? Probably.
Do I need to remember that I am in charge of what happens and not them? Certainly.
So, I'm taking charge. I will remain positive and plaster a smile on my face. There will be more working on their part and less exasperation on mine. I will be clear with what is expected and then actually expect it to happen. It will take time, and even though we don't have much left, it's never to late to make a change. I am the motivating force in the classroom, and I will act as such.