Quiet Signals
Rules for Quiet Signals
- Never, ever, talk or give instructions while the students are talking.
- Quiet signs must be portable. They must be available to the teacher in the classroom, on the field, in the cafeteria, at assemblies, and on field trips.
- Quiet signals should be something that does not get annoying when used several times a day.
- Quiet signs should be unusual enough that students will hear it through their own noise.
- Never shout at the students.
Ideas for Quiet Signs in the Classroom
Clickers: These small devices can be carried in a pocket or on a keychain. Use one click as a warning, or to tell students they have one minute left on a task. Use two clicks as a signal that it is time to be quiet. This is the most versatile sign, and it’s one that students seem to enjoy using.
Five Fingers Up: In this signal, the teacher holds up a hand and counts to five. When the teacher reaches five, all the students should be quiet and paying attention.
Jingles: Many teachers use a jingle to get attention. Some teachers say, “One, two, three, eyes on me!” The students respond, “One, two, eyes on you!”
Clapping: Teachers may clap a rhythm and the students must clap the rhythm to show they are paying attention. This works because students will hear clapping no matter where they are in the room. It also requires students to put down pens and pencils to respond.
Peace Sign: Hand signals are popular. The peace sign of two fingers is the most widely used. The Vulcan greeting is popular with older students. The teacher holds up a hand signal, and all of the students hold up their hands with the signal as well. Since this sign is visual and not auditory, students are expected to get the attention of their neighbors when the teacher uses this sign.
Whistles, Bells, and Rainsticks: These signals are very limited in their use, so don’t rely upon them as a primary quiet sign. Whistles are appropriate for using on the field, but are not good for indoor activities, due to their loudness. Bells and rainsticks are fine inside the classroom, but another sign is needed for activities that take place in other areas such as assemblies.
Quiet Signs That Should Never be Used
- Shouting or yelling
- Banging on a desk or whiteboard
- Anything negative that adds stress to the classroom
To summarize, there are many types of quiet signs to use, and there are certainly many more than are listed here. When choosing a quiet sign, consider the following things:
- Portablility
- Ease of use
- Does not get annoying
- Is positive in nature
- Is age appropriate for the group
Once a quiet sign is established, a positive and effective classroom management system will be easier to maintain. Students will learn more, there will be less wasted academic time, and the teacher will not feel frustrated. Instead, the teacher will get compliments on the good behavior of the students.