Ferdinand  | EducationGhana | May 10 | How to Improve Student Performance in Basic Schools in Ghana: A Practical Guide for Teachers and School Leaders

Learn effective classroom management strategies for Ghanaian schools. This practical guide explains discipline, learner engagement, motivation, and classroom control with real examples.

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Introduction

Classroom management is one of the most important skills every teacher must develop. Even the best lesson plan may fail if learners are distracted, disorganised, or disengaged. In many Ghanaian schools, teachers face challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, varying learner abilities, noise, lateness, and behavioural issues. Effective classroom management helps teachers create an environment where meaningful learning can take place.

Good classroom management is not about fear or punishment alone. It is about creating order, building respect, encouraging participation, and maintaining a positive learning atmosphere. Teachers who manage classrooms effectively often experience:

• Better learner participation
• Improved academic performance
• Reduced disciplinary problems
• Increased confidence in teaching

This article provides practical classroom management strategies with examples relevant to schools in Ghana. The recommendations align with expectations from the Ghana Education Service and current learner-centred approaches promoted by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment.

Understanding Classroom Management

Classroom management refers to the methods and strategies teachers use to:

• Maintain discipline
• Organise learning activities
• Promote learner participation
• Create a safe and productive environment

Effective management allows teachers to focus more on teaching and less on controlling disruptions.

Why Classroom Management Matters

1. Improves Academic Performance

A calm and organised classroom improves concentration.

Practical Example

In one classroom, learners move around and interrupt lessons constantly. The teacher spends most of the lesson restoring order. In another classroom, routines are clear, transitions are smooth, and students remain focused. The second class completes more learning activities and performs better academically.

2. Encourages Learner Participation

Students participate more when they feel safe and respected.

Example

A teacher who allows learners to express ideas without ridicule encourages confidence and classroom interaction.

3. Reduces Stress for Teachers

Poorly managed classrooms create frustration and burnout.

Teachers who establish routines and expectations early experience less stress and greater teaching confidence.

Common Classroom Management Challenges in Ghanaian Schools

Teachers in Ghana often face:

• Large class sizes
• Limited teaching resources
• Diverse learner abilities
• Noise and distractions
• Irregular attendance

Understanding these realities helps teachers develop practical solutions.

Establishing Classroom Rules and Expectations

Clear rules provide structure and consistency.

Effective Classroom Rules

Rules should:

• Be simple
• Be realistic
• Be explained clearly

Example Rules

• Raise your hand before speaking
• Respect classmates and teachers
• Complete assignments on time
• Keep the classroom clean

Practical Example

Instead of saying:

“Do not make noise.”

Use:

“Speak only when given permission.”

Positive and specific instructions are easier to follow.

Creating Classroom Routines

Routines reduce confusion and save time.

Examples of Effective Routines

Morning Routine

• Greeting learners
• Taking attendance
• Reviewing previous lessons

Group Work Routine

• Assign group leaders
• Set time limits
• Define roles clearly

Practical Example

A teacher who always begins lessons with a short review question prepares learners mentally for the new lesson.

Building Positive Teacher-Learner Relationships

Respectful relationships improve behaviour and participation.

Practical Strategies

• Learn students’ names
• Listen to learner concerns
• Encourage shy learners
• Avoid humiliating students publicly

Practical Example

A learner repeatedly refuses to participate. Instead of punishing immediately, the teacher speaks privately and discovers the learner struggles with reading. The teacher then provides support.

Effective Communication in the Classroom

Communication affects classroom behaviour significantly.

Use Clear Instructions

Weak Instruction

“Do the exercise.”

Improved Instruction

“Open page 12, answer questions 1–5 individually within 10 minutes.”

Clear instructions reduce confusion.

Maintain Appropriate Tone

Teachers should speak firmly but respectfully.

Shouting constantly may create fear rather than discipline.

Managing Large Classrooms Effectively

Large class sizes are common in Ghanaian schools.

Practical Strategies

1. Use Group Work

Divide learners into smaller groups for discussions and activities.

Example

In a class of 60 learners, the teacher forms 10 groups of six students each to discuss environmental sanitation.

2. Move Around the Classroom

Teachers should not remain in one position throughout the lesson.

Walking around:

• Maintains attention
• Reduces side conversations
• Allows monitoring of learners

3. Use Classroom Leaders

Assign responsibilities such as:

• Group leaders
• Timekeepers
• Board cleaners

This improves organisation.

Motivating Learners

Motivated students behave better and participate more actively.

Positive Reinforcement

Recognise effort and improvement.

Practical Example

Instead of focusing only on top-performing students, praise a struggling learner who improves from 4/10 to 7/10.

Use Encouraging Language

Weak Statement

“You are always wrong.”

Better Statement

“Good attempt. Let us improve this part together.”

Positive language builds confidence.

Managing Disruptive Behaviour

Discipline should be corrective, not merely punitive.

Common Causes of Disruption

• Boredom
• Lack of understanding
• Peer influence
• Emotional challenges

Teachers should identify causes before reacting.

Practical Strategies for Handling Misbehaviour

1. Proximity Control

Move closer to disruptive learners without interrupting the lesson.

2. Non-Verbal Signals

Eye contact or gestures can stop minor disruptions.

3. Redirect Attention

Ask distracted learners questions related to the lesson.

Practical Example

A learner keeps talking during class. Instead of shouting immediately, the teacher moves closer and asks the learner to explain the previous point discussed.

Encouraging Active Participation

Learners are less disruptive when actively engaged.

Activity-Based Learning

Example

Instead of lecturing about pollution, ask learners to identify environmental problems around their community.

Think-Pair-Share Strategy

1. Learners think individually
2. Discuss with a partner
3. Share with the class

This increases participation.

Classroom Arrangement and Physical Environment

The physical setup affects behaviour and learning.

Effective Seating Arrangements

Arrange seats to:

• Allow movement
• Improve visibility
• Encourage interaction

Practical Example

A teacher notices learners at the back remain inactive. Rearranging the seating improves participation.

Time Management in Classroom Management

Poor time management often leads to disorder.

Practical Tips

• Start lessons promptly
• Avoid spending too much time on one activity
• Use transitions effectively

Example

A teacher uses a short countdown before moving to the next activity. Learners adjust quickly.

Role of Assessment in Classroom Management

Assessment keeps learners focused.

Practical Example

A teacher announces a short quiz at the end of the lesson. Learners remain attentive throughout the class.

Working with Parents

Parents support classroom discipline and learning.

Practical Example

A teacher contacts a parent regarding repeated lateness. Together, they identify transportation difficulties and develop a solution.

Supporting Learners with Different Needs

Some learners require additional support.

Practical Example

A learner struggles to read instructions. The teacher provides oral guidance and simplified explanations.

Technology and Classroom Management

Technology can improve engagement when used properly.

Examples:

• Educational videos
• Interactive quizzes
• Digital presentations

Internal Learning Support

Related articles:

• How to Write Lesson Notes Effectively

• How to Improve Student Performance in Basic Schools

External Reference

For educational standards and professional guidance, refer to Ghana Education Service.

Conclusion

Effective classroom management is essential for successful teaching and learning. It involves planning, communication, consistency, and positive relationships rather than fear and punishment alone.

Teachers who establish routines, engage learners actively, and respond to challenges thoughtfully create classrooms where learning thrives.

Strong classroom management does not happen overnight. It develops through practice, reflection, and continuous improvement.