In discipline situations, Dr. Marshall suggests that before moving to the second phase of the Raise Responsibility System—Checking for Understanding—effective teachers will first try to make use of various “unobtrusive techniques.” These are explained in detail on pp. 90-93 of DISCIPLINE WITHOUT STRESS, PUNISHMENTS or REWARDS.

The use of very simple techniques involving body language, mannerisms and inflections in speech etc., will often be enough to help students regain focus and remain on track during lessons. Due to their gentle nature, these techniques also preserve the relationship between student and teacher in discipline situations.

Non-verbal cues are just one way to focus students, encourage them to pay attention to a lesson or follow procedures. Teachers who use them find them to be very effective.

In addition to the many ideas listed in Dr. Marshall’s book, here are two more unobtrusive techniques:

1. For a change of pace from orally giving directions, smile and hold up a poster-size sign, to quietly indicate to students the need for a transition. Some examples would be:

- Please clean up now.

- Thank you for returning to your seat now.

- Show me that you’re ready for recess.

- Please line up.

- Time to come quietly to the carpet.

- Please take out a pencil.

2. Teach students various HAND SIGNS that can be used to remind them to follow established procedures. Here is a link to a site that demonstrates (through video clips) various ASL hand signs that can be used in the classroom.
http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/aslweb/browser.htm

Hand signs can impart a strong message without being harsh. They can be directed to the class as a whole or to an individual student who has forgotten an appropriate procedure. Using hand signs allows the atmosphere of the classroom to remain quiet, productive and positive, and students are intrigued by the use of them.

Students too, can also be encouraged to use hand signs, as a method to quietly indicate to their teacher a need to leave the room to use the washroom, get a drink or perhaps use the library or computer facilities.

Some suggestions for hand signs that would be useful in the classroom:

• Walk (for when someone is moving too quickly in the room or hallway.)

• Listen (when someone has lost their attention)

• Stop

• Start

• Sit

• Move

• Please

• Thank you

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Posted In: Procedures in the Classroom
posted On: April 21, 2007: 9:39 pm: By Kerry Weisner
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