Teetering between childhood and adolescence, middle schoolers between 11 and 14 years old are at a critical stage. They discover who they are, form opinions, test boundaries and navigate their social and emotional lives. For teachers, managing a classroom full of these dynamic individuals can feel overwhelming. However, the right training and strategies can make all the difference. Pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) – Middle Level Education 4-8 online program at Arkansas State University (A-State) equips future middle school educators with the classroom management tools they need to excel.
What Is an MAT Degree?
An MAT is a graduate-level degree designed for individuals who want to enhance their teaching skills. Unlike a traditional Master of Education (M.Ed.), which focuses on educational leadership or policy, the MAT centers on practical teaching skills and classroom strategies. “MATs can be excellent options for individuals with bachelor’s degrees in another field looking to switch careers,” note the authors of Resilient Educator.
A-State’s program covers key subjects in teaching middle school, like the following outlined by Teachers of Tomorrow: adolescent development, curriculum design and classroom management strategies. The program’s Teaming, Teaching, and Learning in the Middle Grades course and the Theories and Strategies of Classroom Management course are specifically tailored to prepare educators with a well-rounded understanding of managing classrooms, engaging students and fostering a positive learning environment.
What Is Classroom Management?
Classroom management refers to teachers’ techniques and strategies to maintain a healthy, productive and respectful learning environment. It’s about more than just controlling behavior — effective classroom management sets the stage for learning by establishing clear expectations, minimizing disruptions and promoting a culture of respect and cooperation.
As an example of the first steps towards managing a classroom, Teach n’ Go suggests teachers ask questions such as “Does everyone have the supplies they need to stay on task? Does everyone have a copy of the book they need to read? Have you controlled for sounds or other distractions that cause behavior problems?” The authors continue, “It may surprise you to learn that ‘logistics’ is a key part of keeping a classroom orderly. Well-constructed lesson plans, good attendance management […] will play a large role in middle school classroom management.”
Understanding the nuances of classroom management is a skill that requires both practice and education. An MAT degree provides future teachers with theoretical frameworks and real-world strategies to apply in their classrooms.
Classroom Management Strategies for Middle School
While all classroom management has general trends across grade levels, there are unique approaches to working with students in middle grades. The following are some classroom management strategies for middle school classrooms, as outlined by HMH Education Company:
Establish Clear Expectations From Day One
Middle school students thrive when they know what is expected of them. From the very first day, it’s important to set clear behavioral and academic expectations. Whether it’s raising hands before speaking, coming to class prepared or being respectful to classmates, these guidelines should be simple, consistent and reinforced regularly.
Create a Routine
Having a routine provides structure that middle school students crave, even if they won’t admit it. When students know what to expect each day, they’re less likely to act out. Start each class with a warm-up activity, and establish a clear schedule for instruction, group work and independent practice. “Remember to talk with your students about the rationale behind various routines,” note the authors of HMH. “Cultivate a greater sense of ownership and community in your classroom by inviting students to create some routines and procedures with you.”
Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for middle school teachers. Rewarding good behavior — whether through verbal praise, points or other incentives — encourages students to follow the rules. This doesn’t mean ignoring poor behavior. It means emphasizing and rewarding positive actions to motivate students more effectively than punishing negative ones.
Build Relationships Through Empathy Interviews
Middle schoolers respond best when they feel understood and respected. Take the time to get to know your students individually. Show them you care about their success by conducting “empathy interviews” and asking them about their dreams, hopes and lives outside the classroom.
Become a Middle School Teacher Through A-State
Teachers of Tomorrow notes that classroom management in middle school requires flexibility, patience and, most importantly, preparation. Teachers who pursue an MAT degree in Middle Level Education, such as A-State’s online program, gain both theoretical knowledge and practical tools to foster an engaging environment where students thrive academically and socially.
Learn more about Arkansas State University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching – Middle Level Education 4-8 program.