In the middle of the year, lessons can become predictable. How do you measure the quality of your teaching, especially when your audience is extremely familiar with your delivery? Shift your focus to a new set of measurements to engage and surprise your students.
- Teach bigger. If you stand in one spot and position your body and hands in the same places every lesson, then get out of your body language box. Place your podium on a different side of the room, consciously move your hands to punctuate your words.
- Teach quieter. If you’re like me, you talk loud and often. Stop. Replace as many spoken words with written words, drawings, or even sign language. Save your words for praise and encouragement directed to your students. Manage your class with posted expectations and behavior correction forms.
- Teach lower. I’m usually taller than my sixth graders. When I explain concepts and answer questions, I’ll get down on one knee to better connect with the student.
- Surprise them. Playing to the unexpected improves retention (of knowledge, that is). Break out a puppet, wear a goofy hat when you open the door, flip your daily schedule backwards (be careful to consider special needs students on this one).
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