There is a phenomenon I see again and again in the classrooms I visit. As attention starts to wane . . . Eyelids droop. Fingers tap. Bodies sigh. . . . the teacher will speed up their instruction. They’ll talk and move faster as … Read more
We’ve covered the topic of speaking so students will listen extensively here at SCM. We’ve talked about the importance of not repeating yourself. We’ve talked about volume and pacing. We’ve talked about timing, pausing, brevity, clarity, and eye contact. But what we have yet … Read more
Okay, so I’ve got this strategy I’ve been using a long time. But I’ve been reluctant to share it. Because, you see, it can, potentially anyway, be an eensy-weensy bit dangerous. Like stepping into the shower or walking down a flight of stairs. So, … Read more
It’s demoralizing. You plan a great lesson. You give it your enthusiastic best. But your students don’t respond well. At all. They’re distracted and sleepy. They’re bored and slouched in their seats. They’re uninspired and blase’ about what you have to teach them. When … Read more
Do you ever get the feeling your students aren’t hearing a word you say? They may be quiet. They may be looking at you. But you know they’re not actually listening. Maybe it’s the blank expressions. Maybe it’s the sighs and yawns. Maybe it’s … Read more
There are those who believe you should never tell a student who volunteers an answer that they’re wrong. And I certainly understand why. It can be embarrassing for them. It can feel like a rejection. It can discourage them from sharing again in the … Read more
Here at SCM, we receive a lot of questions about how to teach lessons that capture student interest. And for good reason. The ability to get your students to want to listen and pay attention plays a critical role in curbing misbehavior. It also … Read more
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