The current climate of my district and the schools that I have taught at require a very strong behavior management plan. I like to say to the students on the first day the "rules" or policies that you hear on the first day is the "real deal" and you will not see me change. The expectations are very clear.
Everyday we start with a bellwork (review and discussion of previous classes) followed up with our classwork. I am very big into group work, activities and projects.