Whole+Group+Strategies


 * 1. Red/Green Flip Card**


 * 2. 100% quiet work time (no music or talking) **

Positive reinforcement for kids who remember to raise their hand and wait to be called on to speak. Print the picture and the student can color in the picture as they exhibit appropriate behavior.
 * 3. "Raise Your Hand Before Speaking" **

**4. Use physical proximity** Whenever possible, walk within 1-3 feet of the student

It's the middle of a lesson and one student isn't paying attention. Stop what you are doing and stare at the student until he/she looks at you. Stare at them - not through them - and hold their gaze for a count of 5 seconds. (You can raise your eyebrows just a tiny bit for maximum effectiveness.) No need for words. They'll know what you mean. . This is Elementary Education 101. Everybody *knows* that kids need routine and structure but it is easy to get caught up in the day-to-day pressure of running a classroom. If you are having trouble with a lot of off-task behavior evaluate your daily routines. Do you often switch things around? (Sometimes we hand math papers in, sometimes we don't, sometimes I pick up their journals, sometimes I don't...) Any inconsistencies? (Sometimes we do snack before recess, sometimes after recess, sometimes we don't get to it until the afternoon...) These tiny things can make a big difference. __http://www.brighthub.com/education/special/articles/40270.aspx__
 * 5. The uncomfortably-long-but-very-effective-5-second-stare... **
 * 6. Establish a consistent routine **

**7. Make sure that everyone is quiet before giving directions.** This is easier said than done but it is very effective.