Some students don't like to be controlled - we can all name students in our classroom past or present who fit this description. Avoid using "everybody" statements, as they usually have no effect on the students you have power struggles with, but they hurt students who usually follow directions. This month, concentrate on saying things like "everybody was talking" or "everybody misbehaved at lunch". If you use whole group punishment (e.g. taking recess away from the whole class) for the actions of a few, try something new this month.
Please post about your experience with "everybody" statements or share some ways in which you create a positive learning environment for your students.
