Hand Signals

Hand signals are an essential tool in managing the Boundless Learning classroom. The internalization of hand signals by students will allow the teacher to maintain order, gain student attention when needed, assess learning and generate smooth transitions. As with all strategies in a Boundless Learning classroom, hand signals need to be introduced, modeled, praised and repeated often in order for students to gain mastery.

Zero Noise Level
This signal is an essential first step in classroom management, and is used to maintain order and attention in the classroom. The purpose of this signal is to have an established procedure for "stopping the action" and transitioning from partner or team activity to whole group or teacher-led activity. Put simply, students are taught to focus attention on the speaker. Students are responsible for helping team partners demonstrate good active listening behaviors (e.g., eye contact, good posture, pencils/pens down, etc.). It is critical that after the signal is given that the speaker does not proceed with the next direction until all students are focused on the speaker with good active listening behavior. Many teachers use a raised hand in the air for a Zero Noise Level signal and expect students to show their attention by also raising their hand. You should select a signal that is meaningful to your student population.

Thumbs-Up
Students are asked to give a thumbs-up signal when team tasks are completed. Thumbs-Up can also be used to assess student understanding. For example, the teacher may ask the whole class, “Using a Thumbs-Up signal, indicate to me how well you understand the algorithm for long division. Thumbs up means I understand completely and can proceed independently, thumbs to the side means I understand, but may need some peer assistance, thumbs down means I do not understand and need further instruction from a teacher.” Using this strategy allows the teacher to assess student needs and to make determinations regarding differentiation of instruction.

Active Listening
The speaker uses a signal that cues students to use their active listening skills. When a speaker uses this signal he/she wants "undivided" attention from the team or class for a long period of time. Both the teacher and the students should use the signal to indicate the he or she is waiting for Active Listening before beginning to speak. Many teachers use the hand formation of an “L” for active listening.

Think Time
The teacher uses a signal to cue students to remain silent and think for a specified period of time. This signal reminds students not to talk or share their own ideas with their team partners at this time. Many teachers use the hand formation of a “T” for Think Time.

1-2-3 Transition
This technique is a transitioning procedure for moving students or teams from one location or space to another. First, teachers use the Zero-Noise-Level Signal to end the activity. Next, teacher says“1.” Students stop working, put pencils/pens down, and give the teacher their attention. The teacher surveys the room and does not give the next direction until every student is ready. The teacher then says "2.” Students gather their materials, stand, push in their chairs, and wait. Again, the teacher surveys the room and does not give the next direction until every student is ready. Finally, the teacher says "3." The third direction actually directs the students to move to a specific location. Teachers may have students move by teams or individually.

*Click on the Resources tab to view and utilize a sample lesson for Introducing The Zero Noise Level Signal.