Silence

It was the last period and this class is not only my technology class but my form class as well. We have a great rapport but sometimes I feel that they are too relaxed around me. I have always said that I would hate to shout; it is a habit I don't want to get into.

They were full of energy and rather loud. I tried to get their attention but it was taking a long time. Partly because of their mood and partly because of their perspective. So I sat down, straight faced and waited. They all started to realise and encouraged eachother to be quiet and pay attention. When everyone was silent, I allowed a moment longer before I talked. I started very quietly as advised by Gavin. I said that I had been waiting for three minutes. I said that I was amazed at how long I had to wait. I told them that they had to remain silent for three minutes as I had done. Before the three minutes was up, I told them that they would not return to their previous behaviour but would remain quiet.

Three minutes feels like a long when you're waiting,

After this basic strategy, I felt that class had reset and the dynamic had changed for the better. I also noticed that my calm nature had rubbed off on the students. Success!