What is Call and Response?
A call and response is an effective classroom strategy to get the attention of your students. The teacher gives a verbal prompt and students respond in unison. This classroom strategy is strong component of your management routine. Read more here about teaching classroom routines.
Why should I use call and response?
- Students are engaged–they must respond as they follow the expectations
- Listening improves-students must listen in order to respond
- Strengthens memory-repetition will enhance memory which supports learning
- Supports strong classroom management-a clear signal is an essential management strategy
- It’s fun-students love to respond to an engaging phrase
How do I introduce call and response?
Use these easy steps to try this management strategy:
Step1: Explain what call and response is -the teacher calls out a phrase and student respond with specific words-Use a visual and/or gestures to help students remember
Step 2: Teach clear expectations after students respond-think through what do you want them to do once you have their attention? Again use a visual or gestures to teach your expectations
Step 3: Expect everyone to follow the expectations every time!
Step 4: Model the expectations-have a student or a small group of students model your expectations.
Step 5: Practice, practice, practice-Especially when you’re introducing this new routine.
Step 6: Encourage students to follow expectations quickly. Use a timer and keep practicing.
Keep it Engaging!
One more idea is to mix up your call backs to keep it fresh and engaging. Keep your students on their toes with seasonal call and response chants. Be sure to review your expectations to make it clear that the words are different but the expected behavior is the same. There are many different versions of this strategy and you can use common wording or create your own with original wording.
Want to try this technique and need ideas?
Grab this freebie or get the full resource here and try call and response in your classroom!
Supporting you always! 💗
