All of the videos I have seen with class/yes (and I'm sure I haven't seen them all) has shown the attention getter while kids are already attending (for the most part). Does anyone have a video (or able to make a video) when kids are busy busy doing work and the attention getter is used.
I ask because when my kids are busy, engaged, and chatty, it takes me about 3 class/yes to get everybody's attention and then if I'm giving directions for the next activity I usually use hands and eyes.
I'm wondering what it looks like in other WBT classrooms.

Thanks!

I don't have a video to share, but I experience the same thing. I don't mind having to say it 2-3 times when they are working cooperatively- it just seems natural that it will take a little longer.

If it takes more than 2-3 times or if they are simply ignoring me, then I go straight to the on the scoreboard. New and novel attention getters always seem to get fasster responses. Just recently I have chosen a student leader. Woah! He can get the class' attention immediately. I think it is because the class thinks it is so cool.

I have also used the class-yes with great success when the kids are looking for books in the library. I have much less succes when we are in the cafeteria or lining up from recess. When everyone else is loud and no one else is giving me their attention it is challenging for the class to get hear/listen. Maybe I need something different for those situations.

Megan,

I would have to agree with allisong. Usually takes at least 2 times before I have everyones attention.

I have become a believer in this idea that whether it's Class/Yes or the scoreboard that there needs to be changes along the way. Otherwise no matter how novel the procedure it loses it's effectiveness over time!

As far as using Class/Yes in other areas besides the classroom. My preferred procedure for anywhere else is a "clap once if you can hear me" procedure. I prefer to use this because even for students who haven't this procedure before it is very evident what to do.

Always Another Day In Paradise!

~Jason

Megan,

This is normal! Even in my total WBT classroom with my little WBT experts...when they are say...finishing up lunch (because they can talk during lunch if they are winning the scoreboard) it might take me 2-3 times with class/yes to get everyone's eyes on me! Now that said...with Teach/Okay....not so much...I usually say class/yes once and only twice if we were just really into our teaching !

HTH

Farrah Shipley
WBT Kindergarten
Texas

That helps a lot. Thank you. I know I'm doing it right.

Farah, I have tried a "back, back, back" signal (they respond were back) to get them to re focus after teach OK. It seemed to me it made it sound and look different than class/yes when I want all their attention.

Today was our first day back from a 4 week spring break (I know) they were so cute they did their own high 5's and switch with out any prompt from me, cha-ching!

When we get really good maybe in a month we will be ready to do our first video.

Oh, yeah and today they asked when do we get to pick leaders. I am close to teacher heaven or what.

Annette