Tip #2: Change-Ups
Studies on attention span indicate that learners stay tuned in to a lecture for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. To restart the students' attention, consider a "change-up" or "quick think." A "change-up" is a student-active break, lasting 2 to 15 minutes. Ideally, change-ups should be timed to give students the opportunity to integrate the most important concepts covered in class.
Examples of "change-ups" or "quick-thinks" include
- Write a Question,
Ask the students to take two or three minutes to write a question they have about the material just covered. Ask for volunteers to ask and answer questions. - Think (or Write) "Pair" Share,
Pose a challenging question and have students either think or write their response for a few minutes. Have them share their response with their neighbor. Ask volunteers to share their responses with the large group. - Pair and Compare,
Students are asked to pair up and compare notes, expanding upon them as needed. - Periodic Recall,
Students stop taking notes, close their books and write down two or three main points from the lecture thus far. Students could then compare and discuss what they have written with a partner. - Re-order the Steps,
Present a series of steps in a mixed order and have students re-order the steps correctly.
