Why should I do it:
- Creates a working relationship with student without calling attention to the student in a negative manner
- Is discrete and quick
- Saves class and instruction time
- Makes students more comfortable and likely to participate and be involved
- Easy to do and effective
- Improves and builds student confidence and self-esteem
When should I do it:
- When a student is losing attention and focus during times of instruction or independent work
- As a form of redirection from misbehavior, talking, off task behaviors, etc
- When a student has problems talking in front of the class
- When a student does not participate or volunteer
- When a student is not following classroom/school procedures
- When a student does something good, correct, successfully, etc
How do I do it:
- Meet with student individually to identify with student how you and they should communicate in a special way
- Have student, as much as possible, pick the sign to use
- Practice with the student and explain when you notice they might need some re-focus, you will show them the sign
- Set up a cue with a student for when they would like to participate, volunteer, or when they will be called on to do so or speak or read in front of the class
- Use cues like smiles, thumbs up, shaking head “yes”, etc to praise students for correct behaviors, participation, volunteering, etc, or to reassure them and encourage them
- Use simple cues like shaking head “no”, raising eyebrows, giving a “one minute” finger signal, etc to redirect students, give directives, etc
Resources & Support for technique:
