Attention Getters

Purpose: To direct students’ attention to the teacher.

Prep Time: None

Materials: None

Although we appreciate adult learners’ enthusiasm, the side chatter that results can be frustrating. Chances are there are classmates who are bothered by the side chatter as well. When it is time to listen to the teacher, try teaching students one of the following procedures:

• Raise Your Hands Version 1: The teacher stands at the front of the room with his or her arm raised. As students see this, they raise their hands and stop talking, focusing on the teacher.
• Raise Your Hands Version 2: The teacher says, “Raise your hand if you can hear me.” Then the teacher raises his or her hand and waits for students to raise their hands and focus on the teacher. The phrase is repeated if necessary.
• Clap Twice: Similar to Raise Your Hands Version 2, except that the teacher instead says, “Clap twice if you can hear me.”
• Clap It Quiet: The teacher claps out a simple pattern and the students respond by clapping the same pattern and focusing their attention on the teacher.
• Make a Request: The teacher says, “Would it be alright if I were the only one speaking right now?” This can be combined with other procedures.

Procedure:

1. Explain to students the need for a procedure when it is time to pay attention to the teacher.
2. Demonstrate what you would like students to do. For example, raise your hand and remain quiet and attentive.
3. Practice the procedure at least once. Ask students to talk to a neighbor about their plans for the weekend and then bring their attention back to the teacher by using the procedure.
4. Don’t hesitate to use the procedure whenever needed.
5. Keep in mind that students will take the procedure as seriously as you do. If necessary, remind students of the procedure and practice it again.