The first 10 minutes of class: calm vs chaos
How your warm-up routine determines the rest of the period
The 10-minute window
Every experienced teacher knows: the first 10 minutes predict the rest of the period. Students who enter a calm, structured environment stay focused. Students who enter chaos never fully settle.
The warm-up formula
Display a warm-up task on the board before students arrive. Set a visible classroom timer for 5 minutes. Students see the task, see the timer, and start working without needing you to say anything.
What to do during warm-up time
Take attendance, circulate, have quiet one-on-one conversations. The timer runs itself. You're free to observe and connect.
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