Last week’s article was about how just three words can improve listening. The phrase “in a moment” keeps students from moving on while you’re giving directions. It keeps them rooted in the present and tuned in until the end. This week, we’re going to … Read more
It’s most noticeable when giving directions. And it’s so, so frustrating. You can actually see it happening right in front of you. As soon as your students think they understand what you’re asking of them, they mentally check out. They stop listening. They turn … Read more
The ability to ask for and receive your students’ attention is crucial. It’s crucial because it saves precious learning time. It improves listening and performance. It allows you to give instruction anytime you need to and know that it will be heard and understood. … Read more
It’s common for teachers to bemoan the state of listening in their classroom. “Sometimes I feel like I’m talking to myself.” “I say it over and over again, and they still don’t get it.” “It’s almost as if they’ve completely tuned me out.” But … Read more
When students get bored their minds drift. And while some settle on daydreaming, tile-counting, and general inattentiveness, other students are drawn to more…ahem…destructive pursuits. For where there is boredom, there is misbehavior percolating just under the surface, ready to pounce. Although there is a … Read more
It is one of the most common teacher complaints. You give a single direction to a quiet and seemingly attentive classroom, and then watch as a third of your students either don’t know what to do, or they do it incorrectly. It’s as if … Read more