Whew…what a short summer. Well it felt like a short summer but it was a full summer filled with heat, rain, parades, fairs, camping trips, road trips, fishing and every other adventure not in the classroom. Well if you’re thinking about it, your students are thinking about it too!
Well, lets share a quick tip on how to keep students engaged in the classroom and if not engaged, at least keeping a small sliver of attention on class in case they are called upon.
On a trip to Cheyenne, WY last year I asked an instructor how he keeps his students engaged in the classroom. He answered with a very interesting method:
1. Purchase a deck of cards.
2. Distribute one card to each student.
3. Instruct each student to remember their card. (Take the cards back)
4. Now ask a question and when a student answers, have them randomly pull out the next card.
5. Which ever card is pulled is the student who must answer the next question.
6. Repeat and watch students stay attentive as they wonder if their card will be pulled next.
As an instructor you can give students one card for the semester, each period or change them everyday. It’s up to you.
Is there any other method you use to keep your student engaged in the class when you can tell they are distracted?
Leave a comment below to enter for the $5 cafe card drawing this month.
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Dustin's Education blog 