I think Chris and I could be good friends
because we’re certainly on the same page when it comes to engaging children in
a meaningful. I hope to attend one
of his workshops and learn more!
WBT’s Big Seven:
1.
The Attention
Getter: Class-Yes!
Teacher says,
“Class!” and children respond, “Yes!”
2.
The
Organizer: Rehearse Classroom
rules with gestures.
3.
The Whole
Brain Activator: Teach/Okay
Teach briefly and then clap your hands and
say,
“Teach!” Students turn to a neighbor and using
gestures reteach the information.
4.
The
Motivator: The Scoreboard
Use a Smiley/Frowny diagram on the
board to keep
students engaged. When students are off task put a
point under the frowny. When they are participating
put a point under the smiley.
5.
The Class
Unifier: Mirror
Teacher holds up hands and says, “Mirror!”
as she
makes gestures. Students say, “Mirror!” and mimic
gestures.
6.
The
Focuser: Hands and Eyes
When the teacher has something important
to say she
says, “Hands and eyes!” Students fold their hands
and stare intensely at the teacher.
7.
The
Involver: Switch
Count class off in ls and 2s. After Teach-Okay, the
1s teach with gestures and the 2s mirror
the
gestures. After “Switch!” is called students change
roles.
I think it’s interesting to reflect on the
biological aspects of the brain from Zull’s research with the practical
applications from Biffle. Have I
bored you with all this brain research?
Well, come back tomorrow and I’ll “switch” to more fun ideas for your classroom!
