Here are a few strategies that have been found to be effective for teachers to increase the time that their students are actively engaged in schoolwork. Teachers give instructions only when all students are attending. Teachers demonstrate the steps that students should follow to complete the task. Teachers direct the students to begin work only after they have heard the directions. High expectations for follow through with assignments are kept.
Teachers keep brisk pace.
Teachers should make instructions and expectations for work very clear. Teachers might break tasks down into smaller segments for certain students who are having trouble with them. Teachers should respond positively to students' questions about tasks since misunderstanding may result in increased disruption. Teachers should provide specific instructions about what students should do when they are done with their work. These activities should be set up so that there is minimal distraction to students who have not finished their work.