I feel like one thing that students enjoy from a teacher is when the teacher seems relatable and treats them more as an adult instead of babying them. I was a student the high school setting not to long ago and this is one thing I appreciated from my teachers. It was also enjoyable when teachers would bring up some form of current event or pop culture event and some how relate it to what we were discussing in the class. This made the lesson seem more interesting and it also made us have a different look on the teacher. Being able to trust and see a a teacher as someone who wants to see you grow is more important than having students fear you.

I would say if students are respected, you will get it in return. Having your basic rules outlined and not straying from them will let your students know that you have your few, core rules and that if those get broken you do not overlook them. If there is an overwhelming amount of rules and expectations, they will naturally break them all the time and if you let it slide, they think that they can continue the behavior. Sometimes less is more.

You could allow the students to make free choices but also let them know that there are rules to the classroom and that things still need permission in order to be done. But don't make the environment so strict the kids are afraid to talk.

Be kind, don't be nice. I believe that finding a balance between respect and love is important. In the beginning, assert that you mean business and that rules are important. But, instead of just shouting rules about what students can and cannot do, tell them why. Doing this will make them understand why they should follow the rules. If they do not understand why, they will want to break the rules, for what child wouldn't? Once you have control over the classroom from the get go, then you can begin to ease up a bit, for you have gained their respect.

I would suggest an authoritative approach. Of course, this is a term used for parenting, but I believe it works in the classroom as well. Establish that rules are important, but do not hesitate to be responsive to emotions.

One way that you can do this is by going over the rules with your students. Let them know that if they follow the rules and all of the assignments are turned in on time then you will allow them to start choosing some of the assignments. However, you have to only allow them to choose if they have followed the rules.

I would say to establish an engaging workplace, be flexible and humorous, but when it comes to handling disruptive behavior and imposing limitations, be consistent. It is good to have a balance between remaining respectful and being approachable, promote open conversation and evaluate your teaching methods frequently