Introduction

As educators, it’s essential to teach students the importance of getting someone’s attention before initiating a conversation. This skill is crucial in developing effective communication and fostering a positive environment in the classroom. In this blog post, we will explore an easy, no-prep activity to help middle school students practice gaining attention, followed by discussion questions, related skills, and next steps for educators looking to incorporate these techniques into their curriculum.

No-Prep Activity

In this activity, students will practice different ways of getting someone’s attention before initiating a conversation. Divide the class into pairs and have each pair take turns role-playing scenarios where one student needs to get the other’s attention. Encourage them to use various methods, such as looking at the person, tapping them on the shoulder, or using their words. Remind them that in a school setting, raising a hand or approaching the teacher is often the most appropriate method. After each scenario, have the students switch roles and practice again.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important to get someone’s attention before starting a conversation?
2. How did you feel when your partner successfully got your attention? How did you feel when they didn’t?
3. What are some other ways to get someone’s attention that were not mentioned in the activity?
4. How can you tell if someone is not paying attention to you? What can you do in that situation?
5. Why is it important to choose the appropriate method of gaining attention based on the situation?

Related Skills

Besides gaining attention, there are other essential social-emotional skills that middle school students should develop to improve their communication and relationships with others. Some of these skills include:

• Active Listening: Teaching students to listen carefully and respond thoughtfully to others helps foster a supportive and respectful environment.
• Empathy: Encouraging students to understand and share the feelings of others helps build strong connections and promote a sense of belonging.
• Respect: Developing a sense of respect for others’ opinions, feelings, and boundaries is crucial for creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
• Conflict Resolution: Equipping students with the tools to address conflicts in a healthy and constructive manner helps maintain a harmonious environment.

Next Steps

Now that you have a better understanding of the importance of teaching students how to gain attention before initiating a conversation, it’s time to incorporate these techniques into your curriculum. To help you get started, we invite you to sign up for free samples of skill-building materials and activities at Everyday Speech. By signing up, you’ll gain access to a wealth of resources designed to enhance social-emotional learning in the classroom and help your students develop essential life skills.