WHAT’S THE EXPECTATION?
The teacher is giving whole-group directions.
Listen quietly, raise hand if needed
Raising your hand before asking a question during instruction.
Expected
The teacher pauses and asks, “Any questions?”
Good time to ask a question
The class is discussing school lunches. You talk about your favorite cafeteria food.
On topic
You want to answer a question during whole-group instruction.
Raise hand and wait to be called on
Students are working independently on an assignment.
Work quietly and stay focused
Talking over another student during discussion.
Unexpected
Two classmates are already talking during discussion.
Wait your turn before speaking
The class is discussing homework, but you start talking about video games.
Off topic
You accidentally interrupt a peer discussion.
Apologize and let others continue
Your class is having a peer discussion.
Take turns speaking and stay on topic
Giving a sarcastic answer to your teacher when she asks a question.
Unexpected
The class is silently taking a test.
Not an appropriate time for comments
Your group is solving a math problem, and you suddenly start discussing weekend plans.
Off topic
You notice classmates are working quietly independently.
Lower voice and stay focused
A guest speaker is presenting to the class.
Listen respectfully and wait for appropriate question time
Waiting for a pause before adding a comment.
Expected
You remember a funny story while the teacher explains directions.
Wait until an appropriate time
The class is discussing career goals and you add a related example from your own experience.
On topic
You have a question during a presentation but the speaker is still talking.
Wait for question time or write question down
Your group is presenting while another group is speaking.
Be attentive audience members and avoid side conversations
Blurting out unrelated thoughts during independent work time.
Unexpected
You strongly disagree with a classmate during discussion.
Wait respectfully and respond appropriately when it’s your turn
During peer discussion, you want to share something interesting but unrelated. What should you do?
Wait for a better time or connect it appropriately to the topic
During class discussion, you become excited about the topic and keep interrupting others with unrelated comments.