Teacher holds up giant Mickey Mouse hand. Students raise hand to signal others. Teacher turns lights on and off quickly. Students turn to teacher for instructions. Teacher rings a bell 3 times.
Students look at teacher for instructions.
Most people don't realize that it's important to actively teach your students your quiet signal. As soon as you put them in teams, tell them that since you are going to allow them to talk during cooperative activities, you need to be able to get their attention immediately. Explain your quiet signal and tell them that you are going to time them the first few times. Let them know that you expect them to be quiet and ready for instructions within 3 to 5 seconds. Have them put their heads together and talk over something like what their favorite food is.