29 Great Attention-Getters for the Classroom
Discover 29 effective attention-getters for the classroom to keep students engaged, focused, and ready to learn.
Managing a classroom full of students requires strategies that capture their attention quickly and effectively. Fortunately, that’s where attention-getters come in! In this article, we’ll cover exactly what attention-getters are, the types of attention-getters you can employ in your classroom, and 29 examples that you can start using today.
What Are Attention-Getters?
Attention-getters are techniques or strategies used to immediately focus a group’s attention on you or a task. In a classroom, they are essential for creating order, engaging students, and transitioning smoothly between activities. Effective attention-getters grab students’ interest and prepare them to listen or participate. By using clear and consistent signals, you can establish a structured and productive learning environment.
Types of Attention-Getters
There are several types of attention-getters you can use in your classroom. These strategies fall into different categories based on the method they use to grab students’ focus. Here are the main types:
Auditory Attention-Getters
Auditory strategies rely on sounds or verbal cues to capture students’ focus. Examples include clapping rhythms, call-and-response phrases, countdowns, and playing sound effects. These methods work because they interrupt the noise in the room with a distinct, recognizable cue.
Visual Attention-Getters
Visual cues use sight to attract attention. Techniques like raising a hand, dimming the lights, holding up a sign, or displaying a timer on the board are effective for creating focus. These cues are especially helpful for visual learners or in noisy environments.
Physical Attention-Getters
Physical strategies involve movement or changes in the environment to redirect focus. Examples include standing silently, using a talking stick, or asking students to stretch. These methods engage students physically, breaking the monotony and refreshing their energy.
Interactive Attention-Getters
Interactive methods require active participation from students. Strategies like repeating a rhythm, responding to a catchphrase, or answering a trivia question involve students directly, making them feel involved and alert.
Routine-Based Attention-Getters
Establishing consistent routines, such as using the same signal or phrase every day, builds habits and ensures students know what to expect. Routines provide structure and reduce the need for repeated instructions.
Attention Getters for the Classroom
Below, you’ll find 29 attention-getters that can help you keep students focused and engaged.
1. Clap a Rhythm for Students to Repeat
Clap a short rhythm and ask students to clap it back to you. This creates immediate focus because it requires active listening and quick action. Students enjoy the interactive element, making it both engaging and effective.
2. Use a Call-and-Response Phrase
Say something like “Class, class” and have students respond “Yes, yes.” Make the phrases fun and engaging. This works because it encourages participation while creating a shared moment of focus.
3. Play a Sound Effect
Use a bell, chime, or digital sound effect to signal that it’s time to pay attention. The unexpected nature of the sound captures their curiosity and prompts them to look at you.
4. Countdown from Five
Start a countdown from five and expect complete silence by the time you reach zero. Reinforce this consistently. The countdown gives students a clear and predictable signal, helping them transition quickly. You can also use an online timer with visuals if you want to incorporate an extra way to grab their attention.
5. Introduce a Catchphrase
Use a unique phrase like “Hocus pocus, everybody focus” to draw attention to you. The novelty of the phrase makes it memorable and fun, encouraging students to tune in.
6. Use a Hand Signal
Raise your hand to signal silence. Teach students to copy the gesture until the room is quiet. This visual cue works well in noisy environments and builds a habit of immediate response.
7. Dim the Lights
Lowering the lights creates a shift in mood and signals to students that their attention is needed. The physical change in the environment grabs attention and sets a calm tone.
8. Start a Song or Chant
Sing or chant something students know. They’ll join in and naturally refocus on you. This method injects energy and fun into the classroom while redirecting their focus. For younger students you can use color songs or something similar, with older students you can get a bit more creative!
9. Pose a Mystery Question
Say, “I have a question for you,” but wait for silence before asking it. This builds curiosity and motivates students to quiet down to hear what comes next.
10. Use a Visual Cue
Hold up a colorful sign, card, or prop to grab students’ attention. The visual element stands out and provides a clear indication that focus is required.
11. Count Students Down With a Timer
Display a countdown timer on the board, showing students how long they have to settle down. This provides a visual and auditory cue that creates urgency without added pressure.
12. Speak in a Whisper
Lower your voice to a whisper. Students will naturally quiet down to hear you. This reversal of expectations is effective because it surprises students and makes them curious.
13. Freeze in Place
Stop moving and stand silently until students realize they need to pay attention. This silent technique is effective because it creates a noticeable pause in the classroom’s energy.
14. Ring a Bell or Use a Clicker
A single ring or click can quickly cut through noise and bring students back to focus. The sharp, clear sound stands out and signals a change in activity.
15. Use Funny Voices or Accents
Change your voice to something silly or unexpected. This often surprises students into paying attention. Humor keeps them engaged and makes transitions smoother.
16. Implement a Point System
Award points to the class for quick attention. Make this part of a larger reward system. This motivates students by connecting attention to tangible rewards, promoting teamwork.
17. Show a Short Video Clip
Play a 10-second video or animation to signal a transition and regain focus. The visual and auditory stimulation captures their attention and resets the atmosphere.
18. Stand Silently With an Expectant Look
Stand still and make eye contact with students, silently waiting for their attention. This non-verbal approach builds awareness and respect for classroom norms.
19. Ask for Complete Silence
Use a direct approach: “I need everyone’s attention now.” Say it calmly but firmly. Being straightforward sets clear expectations and minimizes confusion.
20. Play Background Music
Start or stop soothing music to indicate a transition and regain focus. Music helps set the tone and signals that it’s time to listen.
21. Use a Talking Stick
Only the person holding the stick can speak. Pass it to maintain control during discussions. This tactile approach promotes respect and order in conversations.
22. Incorporate Movement
Ask students to stand, stretch, or perform a simple action to reset their focus. Physical activity refreshes their energy and helps them transition back to learning.
23. Display an Attention Signal
Use a slideshow slide or poster with a bold “Attention” message. The visual cue is easy to spot and serves as a consistent reminder.
24. Have Students Repeat a Catchy Phrase
Say, “Eyes on me,” and have them reply, “Eyes on you.” The repetition reinforces focus and builds a shared classroom routine.
25. Ask a Trivia Question
Pose an interesting question related to the lesson and wait for silence before answering. This method taps into their natural curiosity while redirecting their energy.
26. Use Humor
Tell a quick, funny story or joke to redirect attention to you. Laughter breaks the tension and creates a positive atmosphere for learning.
27. Create a Routine
Establish a consistent method like clapping, raising your hand, or using a specific phrase to keep students focused. Routines build habits and provide structure, making transitions smoother over time.
28. Use a Cuddly Toy
Introduce a cuddly toy as a classroom mascot or “listener.” Bring it out during important moments to signal focus. The toy taps into students’ curiosity and imagination, encouraging them to pay attention.
29. Try a Squeaky Toy
Squeeze a squeaky toy to grab students’ attention quickly. The sudden, unexpected sound cuts through the noise and draws focus. Use it sparingly to maintain its novelty and effectiveness.
Got Your Attention?
Using attention-getters in your classroom helps capture students’ focus and maintain their interest throughout lessons. Whether it’s a fun phrase, a sound, or a visual cue, these strategies create an engaging learning environment. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for your students. The right attention-getter can improve classroom management and make learning more enjoyable for everyone.
