talking during transitions

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Home : 2003 : August : 25

talking during transitions
By Carolyn

I teach elementary school, grade 5. My kids are very chatty by nature. I let them know that while they are learning and while class is going on, they need to be silent. I allow them to talk for a little bit when I change subject areas. I give a signal, then the talk time is over and I am ready to begin the next subject. I explained this to them at the beginning of the year, and it seems to work well for us. I think it helps if you give them a little time as a "break" for transitions, but they also need to get back on track again quickly. As for the hallway, I have also explained to them the importance of being silent there. I think that they do understand and most try to comply with that request.