-Attention Signals-

I use several attention signals to redirect my students. Here are some of the signals that I use:

  1. Ring a doorbell one time.

  • Students know that the sound of the doorbell means they need to be quiet and focus their attention on me.

  1. Clap

  • Clap one time if you hear my voice (repeat until quiet) do not go past 3 claps. If the class is still noisy at 3 claps. Stop and say, I asked you to clap if you could hear me. I did not have 100% of participation. Lets try it again and if I have to get to 3 claps, I will not be happy. Practice this over and over under everyone does it the first clap.

  1. Give me 5

  • Do not stop at Give me 5, the students will give you 5 and keep talking with their hand in the air. Count them down to 1. Say: Give me 4, give me 3, give me 2, give me 1. Take the 1 finger you have left in the air and bring it down over your lips while saying bring it down, keep it there while lowering your voice. This is a signal to let the students not only know you want their attention, but their voice levels were too high and they need to adjust.

  1. Call and Response

  • Hands on Top - Everybody Stop

  • Class, Class - Yes, Yes

  • Flat Tire - Shh!!!

  • Macaroni and Cheese - Everybody Freeze

-Classroom Rules-

  1. Follow directions quickly.

  2. Raise your hand for permission to speak.

  3. Raise your hand for permission to leave your seat.

  4. Make smart choices.

  5. Make our class strong.

-Expectations and Routines-

Consistency is key!

  1. Explain what the rule/procedure is and how it is done.

  2. Practice rule/ procedure under teacher guidance.

  3. Reinforce rule/procedure until it becomes a part of student.

  4. Expect rules and procedures to be followed throughout the year, with appropriate awards and consequences.

  5. Warn student when it is time to be flexible. i.e. (program days, rainy days etc.)


CHAMPS - I try to CHAMP out each activity. This allows all students to know exactly what is expected of them for each activity.

  1. C - Conversation - Voice Level

  2. H - How to Ask for Help

  3. A - Name of the Activity

  4. M - Movement Allowed

  5. P - Participation - On-Task Behavior

  6. S - Success