So often teachers say that motivation is the key to everything they do in the classroom. They want to motivate kids to read, write, and solve problems. They want to inspire them to take pride in a fluently-read paragraph or a simple act of kindness. They hope that their encouragement will help students to find their passions so they can become…

Nearly every successful grown-up--actresses, brain surgeons, and teachers alike--can tell a heartwarming story about the time a teacher gave them the compliment that lifted them up, giving them permission to become great. But expert Elizabeth Hartley-Brewer suggests that there is good praise, and there is bad praise. According to the author of…

Suggestions are offered for formulating a classroom management system where students develop social and psychological strengths, responsibilities, and independence in a positive classroom atmosphere. In this classroom, the teacher stresses the positive and is consistent without always being concerned with being "in control." (DF)