Strategies for Keeping Art Students Focused and Successful
Teaching art can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when it comes to keeping students focused on success. In today’s post-pandemic, high-tech classroom environment, student engagement is often fleeting, and educators must work even harder to capture and maintain their attention.
But fear not! As creative individuals, we are naturally resourceful. With the right strategies, it’s possible to keep students on track and excited about their art projects.
The Importance of Structure in the Classroom
Reflecting on how we interact with students is key to effective classroom management. Are your expectations clear? Is your communication with students concise? If the answer is no, then it’s time to niche down—just like in online marketing—by breaking classroom management into smaller, digestible parts.
For more classroom management tools and ideas, visit Mrs. T Fox’s Resource Store on TPT.
Three Free and Easy Strategies to Keep Art Students on Track
Let’s dive into three of my favorite classroom management strategies that have helped me keep students focused and on track, while fostering an environment of success.
Strategy 1: The “Minute-by-Minute” Method
Time is an abstract concept for many students. By making it tangible, you help them manage their projects better. At the beginning of each class, write the number of minutes remaining before the project’s due date on the board. This makes the time they have left to complete their work feel more real and immediate.
Example:
- Tuesday: 90 minutes
- Wednesday: 90 minutes
- Thursday: 90 minutes
Each day, review the minutes left and ask the class if the due date is reasonable given their progress. When students hear, “You have 270 minutes left,” it creates a sense of urgency that motivates them to stay focused.
At the end of the class, dramatically erase the day’s minutes from the board—this visual cue reinforces that time is running out, encouraging students to stay on task.
Strategy 2: “Proximity and Praise”
A little positive reinforcement goes a long way. Instead of constantly reminding students to stay on task, try the proximity and praise technique. Every 10 minutes or so, walk around the classroom and observe their work. Point out something specific that you like about each student’s project, even if they are struggling.
For example, if a student isn’t making much progress, simply compliment a small detail in their work. The key is to focus on positive reinforcement without nagging. Even a small bit of praise can inspire students to keep going, and it keeps the classroom environment productive and positive.
For more tips on creating a positive classroom culture, explore Mrs. T Fox’s Online Courses.
Strategy 3: “My Sincerest Thanks”
On the project’s due date, I like to start class by thanking students for their hard work. I tell them, “It’s incredibly difficult to get 36 people to finish on time,” and then express my appreciation for their effort. This helps create a sense of accomplishment and belonging, reinforcing that their work is valuable and appreciated.
Once projects are completed, we hang them in the hallway for everyone to see. This not only gives students a sense of pride but also fosters a family mindset in the classroom. We’re all in this together, working toward shared goals.
Building a Family of Artists
The secret to successful classroom management lies in building a community of artists. When students feel like they are part of a team working toward excellence, they are more likely to stay focused and give their best effort. By setting clear boundaries and offering consistent praise, you create a classroom environment where students thrive.
Looking for more ways to foster collaboration and success in your art classroom? Check out Mrs. T Fox’s Resource Store on TPT for lesson plans and classroom management tools.
Explore More Resources and Stay Connected
1. Shop Mrs. T Fox’s Resource Store on TPT
Take your classroom management and teaching strategies to the next level with resources like scaffolded lesson plans, project templates, and time-saving tools. Visit Mrs. T Fox’s Resource Store on TPT to start building a classroom that inspires success.
2. Learn with Mrs. T Fox’s Online Courses
Want to master classroom management and student engagement? Explore Mrs. T Fox’s Online Courses for actionable strategies, step-by-step guidance, and professional development opportunities tailored to art educators.
3. Follow Mrs. T Fox on Social Media
Stay inspired with teaching tips, project ideas, and behind-the-scenes classroom moments by following @mrs_tfoxresources on Instagram. It’s the perfect place to connect with other educators and spark creativity in your classroom.
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Wrapping It Up
Classroom management doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking it into simple, actionable strategies like the Minute-by-Minute Method, Proximity and Praise, and My Sincerest Thanks, you can create a classroom environment where students feel motivated, focused, and successful.
Remember, the secret to success lies in building a community of artists who feel supported and inspired to do their best work.
Thanks for reading, and have a wonderful, creative school year!
Tiff 🙂
