A gloomy or disorganised start to lesson nearly always results in misbehaviour or lack of interest.

The first five minutes are therefore very important.

DO

• Begin your class with a Du’a
• Mention the Islamic date and discuss briefly the important dates occurring in the week.
• Look confidently and pleasantly (smilling!) at the class.
• Summon their attention before you begin teaching, waiting in silence if necessary.
• Tell the class what the lesson will be about.
• Introduce the new work with some enthusiasm – you may have taught it before, but to them it is new.

DON’T

• Arrive late.
• Begin by criticising individuals or the whole class.
• Apologise for what you are about to do or teach.
• Shout – a quieter voice may be more effective.
• Appear disorganised – even if you are!
• Speak to individuals while expecting the others to do nothing.
• Spend the first five to ten minutes preparing yourself without giving the class something specific to do.