For educators, it’s essential to help students develop the ability to stay focused and engaged in class. This not only benefits their learning but also creates a positive and inclusive classroom environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore a no-prep activity to help students stay on task, discuss related questions, and mention other relevant skills that contribute to their overall development. Finally, we’ll provide a link to free sample materials that can support your teaching journey.
Introduction
Staying focused in class can be a challenge for students, especially when they are tempted to think about their favorite movies, games, or other distractions. However, by developing the skill of focusing on the task at hand, students can better participate in group activities, learn more effectively, and avoid distracting their peers. This skill, in turn, contributes to the broader principles of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), which emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
No-Prep Activity: The Focus Train
An excellent no-prep activity to help students practice staying focused is called “The Focus Train.” To begin, have students sit in a circle. Explain that the goal of the activity is to keep their attention on a single topic or task for a set amount of time. The educator will start by mentioning a subject, such as “animals in the rainforest,” and then pass the “focus train” to the next student in the circle. Each student should contribute a relevant thought or fact about the topic, keeping the train moving in the right direction.
If a student shares an unrelated idea or gets off track, the educator should gently remind them to return to the topic at hand. The focus train continues around the circle until it reaches the starting point or a predetermined time has elapsed. This activity helps students practice maintaining their attention on a single subject and encourages active listening and participation.
Discussion Questions
- Why is it important to stay focused and engaged during class?
- What are some strategies you can use to help you stay focused when you feel distracted?
- How does staying focused in class contribute to a positive learning environment for everyone?
- Can you think of a time when you were able to stay focused and engaged in class? How did it impact your learning experience?
- How can you support your classmates in staying focused and engaged during class?
Related Skills
Beyond staying focused in class, there are other essential skills that students can develop to support their overall growth and success. Some of these related skills include:
- Active listening: Paying close attention to what others are saying, asking questions, and showing empathy.
- Time management: Organizing and planning how to divide time between tasks and activities effectively.
- Self-regulation: Managing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations.
- Collaboration: Working effectively with others to achieve a common goal or complete a task.
- Resilience: Adapting to change, overcoming obstacles, and bouncing back from setbacks.
Next Steps
Helping students stay focused and engaged in class is just one of many skills that contribute to their overall development. To support your teaching journey and explore more activities, sign up for free sample materials that cover a range of topics and skills. By incorporating these resources into your lessons, you can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for your elementary students.
