All eyes on…”Student Engagement!”

Another amazing week! Thank goodness for WBT!

One of our newest strategies refocuses on calling students to share responses in class. While circulating among students during a Teach-Okay set, note students who are highly engaged and sharing great information with their partners. Lean over to that student(s) and say, “Great job! I may be calling on you later to share with the class.”

Call the class back with, “Class!” and wait for their response, “Yes!” Repeat the question from the previous discussion. Now point to a student you spoke to earlier and say, “All eyes on Sam!” Class responds, “All eyes on Sam!” while turning to look at Sam. Sam rises quickly and says, “Class!” Class responds, “Yes!” Sam says, “Mirror, Words!” Class says, “Mirror, Words!”

Sam answers question, using gestures and pausing to allow class to echo and mirror his complete sentence answer. You may encourage him to give additional details and examples by spinning your pointer fingers around each other. You are always looking to encourage critical thinking from your students. When Sam is finished, there should be some major Ten Finger Wooos! At this point, you may decide to call on another student to respond, or proceed on with your 5 Step Lesson.

If you have had the opportunity to try this in your class, please share with us!