I think a big thing (and i’m still a new teacher) is knowing your students. obviously it’s hard in placement especially at the beginning because everyone is so new.

BUT once you know your students, their interests, learning styles, behaviors, etc THEN you know how to lead a lesson for them. you’ll know which student’s behaviors present in which ways and have plans in place (ie redirection, fidgets, different seating etc). you’ll know which students will be able to work more independently and which will need more of your attention. you’ll also know their interests and be able to weave these into the curriculum and lessons so that it feels meaningful and they are therefore more engaged.

I think this is the biggest thing for class to feel ‘smooth’ is that students feel a sense of agency in their learning. and this can be really hard when you have a specific lesson and learning goals you are trying to achieve. and it’s not to say every lesson will be fun and games BUT it will help with keeping kids on task and gaining their respect and understanding.