Listen Up! — Keeping Students' Attention

There's nothing more frustrating than students who just won't listen and follow instructions! In every classroom, there seem to be at least one or two. To make matters worse, their selective hearing impairment seems not only contagious but also quite distracting. How do successful teachers and parents train kids to listen? First, the teacher does not talk over the students. This is much easier said than done. It's extremely hard for us as human beings to simply wait in silence. Especially when we are short on time and patience. But the teacher who wants to train students how to actively listen will simply stand silently waiting for the students to finish talking. Then the teacher may remind the class that he will always be glad to wait for the talking to stop before beginning the lesson. The teacher goes on to explain that there will be less time for using computers, doing partner work, playing math games (or whatever activity your class enjoys), but he is always glad to wait for everyone's attention. To be even more proactive, Michael Linsin, author of Dream Class, suggests teaching students to stop what they're doing and look at you when you give a certain signal. Read more . . . More than just worksheets, Excel Math lessons include hands-on visuals and manipulatives, stretches (brainteasers), cooperative learning activities, interactive opportunities (including Projectable Lessons) and a new Common Core Edition coming for fall. Our tried and true "original" Excel Math lessons (updated for 2013) will still be available for Texas and other non-Common Core states. You also receive easy-to-teach lessons (to use as a supplement or in a core position), guided practice, Basic Fact Practice, Homework, and regular assessments. Walk through a lesson on our website: www.excelmath.com/tour/tour01.html You might also like: Summer: A Season of Math Learning Classroom Management Tips Excel Math Summer School Samples