Interactive Modeling for Better Behavior and Smooth Transitions: My Top 5 Routines!

Ah, March—the month where students seem to forget every routine you’ve painstakingly taught them since August. Lining up turns into a conga line, transitions resemble an episode of Wipeout, and somehow, someone is still using scissors to cut their eraser into tiny confetti pieces. Sound familiar?!

The truest thing you'll ever here when it comes to teaching:

There is no "wrong" time to do a classroom reset.

Before we all descend into complete classroom March Madness, let’s take a deep breath and get back to basics: Interactive Modeling — the secret weapon that keeps our classrooms from turning into a free-for-all.

What Is Interactive Modeling (And Why Didn’t I Try This Sooner?)

Unlike the classic "I told them, so they should know" approach (which, let’s be honest, has a 0% success rate), Interactive Modeling actually shows students how to meet expectations. Instead of just telling them, we:

Model the behavior ourselves.

Ask students what they noticed.

Have a student model it, too.

Let the whole class practice.

It’s like a mini reality show where the "winner" gets the prize of not being constantly reminded how to walk in the hallway!

Here are my TOP 5 ways to use interactive modeling with classroom routines:

1. Entering the Classroom Calmly

(Also known as: Entering the Classroom Like a Calm, Collected Human)

How they actually enter: Running, talking, dropping their backpack in the middle of the floor like it’s a crime scene.

How we want them to enter: Walking in, putting belongings away, starting the morning routine like the independent learners we know they can be.

Model: Walk in quietly, put belongings away, and start the morning routine.

Ask: "What did you notice about how I entered?"

Student Model: Choose a student to demonstrate.

Class Practice: Everyone tries it together.

2. Lining Up & Walking in the Hallway

(Also known as: Lining Up Without Looking Like a Flash Mob)

The second you say "Line up," students can interpret this as Run and shove your way to the front! Instead, let’s slow it down.

Model: Show how to stand in line, keep hands to yourself, and walk silently.

Discuss: "What helped us stay safe and respectful?"

Student Model: One or two students demonstrate.

Class Practice: Try it as a group.

3. Using Materials Respectfully

(Also known as: Using Materials Like They’re Not Disposable)

Markers with missing caps. Scissors in the wrong bin. Glue sticks that have been twisted into oblivion. If this sounds like your classroom, it’s time for a refresh.

Model: Take out materials, use them properly, and clean up.

Ask: "What did you see me do with the materials?"

Student Model: Let a student demonstrate.

Practice & Reinforce: Have small groups practice and share observations.

4. Transitioning Between Activities

(Also known as: Making Transitions Less… Dramatic)

Model: Show what a quick and quiet transition looks like (ex. moving from the rug to desks).

Discuss: "What did it look like while I was moving? What did it sound like?"

Student Model: Let a student or small group try.

Class Practice: Have the whole class transition together.

5. Asking for Help

(Also known as: Asking for Help Like a Pro Without Yelling "TEACHERRRR!" Across the Room)

Model: Demonstrate raising your hand, waiting patiently, and using a kind voice.

Ask: "What did you notice about how I asked for help?"

Student Model: Let a student try it.

Class Practice: Students practice with a partner. Bonus points if they don’t wave their arm like they’re hailing a taxi.

Final Thoughts: Reset & Refresh

March is the perfect time for a routine reset. With Interactive Modeling, you’re not just reminding students—you’re engaging them in the process.

Plus, who knows? By reinforcing expectations now, you might just survive the countdown to summer with your sanity intact.

Happy interactive modeling!

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