I had been teaching long enough, and had made enough mistakes, to know the 3 most important things when dealing with an angry classroom outburst:

1. Remain calm.

2. Don't take it personally.

3. Take the conversation outside.

I had recently attended a "Capturing Kids Heart's" training by the Flippen Group where they suggested asking a specific question in these situations. This was the perfect opportunity to test it.

I spoke slowly and quietly when I asked him to step out into the hall. I paused for a minute as we stood outside the classroom door and then asked, "Have I done something to offend you?"

The change in his body language was immediate. His face softened. "No," he said and then went on to explain why he had reacted the way he did.

I have used this or similar questions many times since then, and it always helps to diffuse the situation.

What strategies do you find most effective for managing student outbursts?

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