Best Practices for a Successful Middle School Classroom

(Grades 6-8) / Flex Course

PDI Course Number: 17T02 / UCSD Course Number: EDUC41572

Course Description

Do you need help managing your middle school classroom? This online course is designed for teachers of grades six through eight who are interested in exploring best practices for developing and managing a successful junior high or middle school classroom. This course covers strategies for implementing the grade level standards, while managing time so that all content is covered. Issues common in grades six through eight such as time management, organizational skills, and lack of motivation are covered along with overall classroom management techniques. Teachers learn how to maximize the resources which are available to them as well as find innovative ways to gain more resources at little-to-no cost. This course also explores successful strategies for gaining students’ attention and interest, and truly engaging them in lessons. Teachers will also learn how to respond to a variety of teaching challenges, including how to effectively reach their most at-risk populations such as students with special needs and those living in poverty. Mainstreaming English language learners and techniques for differentiating instruction to meet the needs of all students is covered as well. Finally, tips for working with parents are also shared. By the end of this course, teachers will feel better prepared to successfully manage a middle school classroom. This course is worth 3 ⅓ semester units/5 quarter units (50 hours of training) from University of California San Diego (UCSD) Division of Extended Studies. For detailed information on university credit, click here.

"Great course! I would highly recommend this course for new teachers as well as seasoned veterans. The course content was relevant to my experiences in middle school. I was able to refresh what I already knew as well as learn new strategies and perspectives." - Nancy Reynolds