Strategy: Using an Attention Signal
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Use this strategy to improve these areas:
Overview
Having a signal that allows you to quickly gain the attention of your students can save your time and increase time for instruction. Having one or more attention signals in your tool box will help in reducing the time it takes for students to transition from one activity to another. It will also provide you with an efficient way to get students’ attention anytime it is needed
Purpose
Attention signals are used to quickly gain the attention of the students in your classroom regardless of what they are currently doing (independent and/or group work), allowing you to provide direction or further instruction. Once attention signals are taught and students begin to respond to them, they can be used in a variety of situations (e.g. hallway, fieldtrips, and recess).
There are four elements to an effective attention signal:
1) The attention signal includes both auditory and visual cues that are easily noticed by everyone immediately.
2) The signal is age appropriate. The students should enjoy using the attention signal.
3) Effective signals not only gain students’ attention but require students to provide a response. This allows you to know everyone is ready.
4) Choose a signal that does not require specific conditions (e.g. flipping a light switch which would require you to stand near the switch in order to use the signal). Having flexibility to use the signal wherever you are (e.g., hallway) makes it more useful.
How To
How to Select and Implement an Attention Signal
First, select a signal that is age appropriate and matches your style in the classroom. The signal should include a verbal and visual cue that the students respond to immediately.
Examples:
- Rhythmic clapping with a song
- Teacher: sing “Old McDonald Had a Farm” and clap on the words.
- Students: sing “Ei-Ei-Oh“ and clap on the words
- A catchy phrase
- Teacher: count on hand and say “1, 2, 3 eyes on me“ and point to eyes
- Students: count on hand and say “1, 2 eyes on you“ and point to teacher
- Counting
- Teacher: “give me five” and raise hand
- Students: count to five on fingers, raise their hands and look at the teacher
Next, teach students to respond to the attention signal within 5 seconds . Demonstrate the signal and explain what you expect them to do when you use it.
I am going to show you a signal that means I need your attention. Here is the signal (demonstrate). When I use this signal, stop talking, look up at me, respond with (demonstrate the student response you choose) and wait. I will tell you what we need to do next when everyone has eyes on me.
Then, practice the signal with your students throughout the day in a variety of settings.
OK, we are going to practice using the signal. I want to see how quickly you are all able to have your eyes on me. Ready? (use signal)
If all students respond within 5 seconds, tell them that they are doing it correctly:
Wow, you guys gave me your attention quickly. Great work. I will be looking for everyone to give me their attention next time I use the signal.
If some students respond slowly or not at all, demonstrate and explain the signal again, then practice again:
That was close. Some of you forgot to give me your eyes and respond with (demonstrate the student response you chose). Let’s try that again. We can do it this time! Remember, when I use this signal, stop talking, look up at me, respond with (demonstrate the student response you choose) and wait. I will tell you what we need to do next when everyone has eyes on me. Ready? (use signal)
Continue to implement and repeat practice with the signal as needed. Provide the students with feedback regarding their behavior in response to the attention signal that you have selected. If they are doing a good job, provide behavior specific praise (e.g., “Thank you for giving me your attention so quickly”) or a reward immediately. If students continue to struggle, clearly explain how they can improve and ensure that the expectations are understood.
Example Videos:
Handclap
Video Prompts:
- This video shows a teacher using hand claps to gain the attention of the students before a transition.
- Notice how the students clap back to show they know it is time to transition.
- After gaining the attention of the students the teacher gives very specific directions so the students can transition smoothly.
- What did you like about this attention signal?
- How does using a signal like this help students transition to the next task smoothly?
- How might you incorporate this or other attention signals into your daily teaching?
Verbal with Hand Signal
Video Prompts:
- The students in this video are very excited about the activity. The teacher uses an attention signal that uses both her voice and a hand signal. Notice how quickly the students respond.
- Notice that the teacher provides behavior-specific praise to the students who respond (see Using Behavior-specific Praise)
- Her use of praise following a student responding helps to get other students on task and makes it more likely that students will respond quickly in the future.
- What did you like about how this teacher used this attention signal?
- How could you use a similar attention signal to help with transitions or giving instruction to your students?
Strategy Tool
Use the My Attention Signal strategy tool to help you select, teach, and practice an attention signal you select for your classroom.
Reflection
Take a moment to make sure your plan is going to work.
Goal Setting
Use the following form to set your attention signal goals.
References to Other Relevant Resources:
Reinke, W., Herman, K., & Sprick, R. (2011). Motivational interviewing for effective classroom management: The classroom check-up. New York, NY: Guilford Press.
Sprick, R. (2009). CHAMPS: A proactive and positive approach to classroom management. Eugene, OR: Pacific Northwest Publishing.
