The First Days of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher

The First Days of School provides instruction for teachers on establishing effective classroom management and procedures from day one. The book outlines specific strategies for creating an organized learning environment where students understand expectations and routines. Wong and Wong present research-based methods for planning lessons, arranging classroom space, and building positive relationships with students. The text includes practical examples, checklists, and implementation steps that teachers can apply immediately. Each chapter focuses on core aspects of teaching success, from preparation before the school year to maintaining consistency throughout the term. The emphasis remains on proactive techniques rather than reactive discipline. The book stands as a foundational resource on the connection between structured classrooms and student achievement. Its enduring influence stems from its focus on concrete, replicable practices rather than abstract theory.

Readers describe this as a practical handbook for new teachers, with clear classroom management strategies and setup procedures. Teachers report implementing the book's methods improved their classroom control and student behavior. Likes: - Step-by-step procedures for first days of school - Ready-to-use classroom management techniques - Clear examples and illustrations - Organization tips and checklists Dislikes: - Some find the tone condescending - Content repetitive across chapters - Examples focused mainly on elementary level - Price high for a paperback Multiple teachers noted the procedures section helped them establish routines. One high school teacher said "the first chapter alone saved my first year." Critics felt certain segments, like the extensive focus on teacher dress code, were outdated. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.16/5 (8,724 ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (1,283 ratings) The book ranks consistently in Amazon's top 5 classroom management titles since publication.

Teach Like a Champion by Doug Lemov This guide presents specific teaching techniques to establish classroom procedures, manage student behavior, and increase academic achievement.

The Classroom Management Book by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. Wong This companion text provides templates, charts, and tools for implementing classroom management strategies from day one.

Teaching with Love and Logic by Jim Fay and David Funk The text presents methods for creating classroom discipline through student responsibility and problem-solving skills.

The Teacher's Guide to Success by Ellen L. Kronowitz This resource covers classroom setup, instruction methods, and professional development through a teacher's first years.

What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker The book identifies specific practices and attitudes that distinguish effective teachers from others in the profession.

📚 Harry Wong's workshops and presentations have reached over 1 million teachers worldwide, making him one of the most influential speakers in education. 🎓 The book has sold over 4 million copies and has been translated into multiple languages, becoming one of the bestselling books in education. 📖 The First Days of School began as a series of workshop handouts that Harry Wong developed while training new teachers in the 1970s. 👥 Co-author Rosemary Wong taught special education for many years and brings her expertise in classroom management for diverse learners to the book. 🏆 The book's procedures-based approach was revolutionary when first published in 1991, challenging the then-popular assertive discipline model that focused on rules and consequences.