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You are here: Experts > Parenting/Family > Special Education > Teaching Advice > getting their attention
Expert: Patricia Ireland-Williams
Date: 6/12/2005
Subject: getting their attention
Question
I have been teaching in a middle school for the last two years and am trying to think of a good way to get the students' attention when I need it. I have tried using the "Give me five" method while raising my hand, but I really don't like it. At times I've resorted to a loud "Hey!" (not yelling) just to get them to look at me. I had a professor that used to say "Meanwhile" and we would have to reply with "back at the ranch" and that seemed to work, but it was a college class. Are there other things that are similar to that which can be done with 7th graders? Do you have any other advice?
Answer
I have used the prompt 5-4-3-3-1 (count down slowly) for years and it has worked fine. I also have used silence with my hand raised and waited for others to raise their hands when they see mine......eventually they will be quiet. One of the most effective ways I have seen is using an inexpensive wind chime or cluster of bells (usually used at home for decorative purposes).........when you want their attention, you simply touch the bells and let them prompt the students to focus on you.
Best of luck.......
Patricia
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