"Aaaaand Pause" Technique

modifying this technique

  • Feel free to change the gesture to support students with different bodies.
  • You can use this technique to support more vocab acquisition by changing the words. But keep in mind that changing the words too often can be confusing and disrupt focus.

skill breakdown

MAKE SURE YOU CAN BE SEEN/HEARD
Before you use this technique, think about how easily the students can see or hear you. Make sure you are modeling clear gestures and projecting your voice.

  • Why? This technique is effective because if students can’t hear you, they will be able to see your arm movement, and vice versa. This ensures that when the students are asked to join you, they have clear instructions that focus both their body and their voice.

CLEAR SOUND
Courtney clearly and loudly extends the “Aaaaand”.

  • Why? This gives the students more time to notice the direction, and gives it a repeatable melody.

CLEAR GESTURE
Courtney starts her words and gesture simultaneously. She moves her arms like she is closing a book to give the impression of something coming to a close.

  • Why? This gesture is simple enough for young children to repeat. It also focuses the mind and body simultaneously.

TRY IT AGAIN
If your class doesn’t hear or see you the first time, don’t be shy to try it again. This time, adjust your volume or your position in the room to help them notice you.

DON'T LET THE ATTENTION GO
As soon as you have the attention of your group, say “let’s all say that.” Keep that focus even if there is a distracted outburst.

  • Notice: In the video, Courtney models a way to positively reinforce a distracted student by praising their enthusiasm and asking them to share.
  • Why? This is where you finally ask students to use focused listening, focused speaking, and focused movement at the same time.