This focus activity allows you to call focus during solo time or in the classroom by encouraging brief listening and discussion before moving on to another subject. Choose a short thematic piece with a more obvious story line and strong language to allow students to engage more quickly and complete a discussion more simply. Lyrical poetry that is short to medium in length can help an individual focus and can support a fresh mind that is ready to tend to another matter.
In the classroom, calling for clear signals every time a subject or activity changes can be a useful focus practice. Ask students to establish eye contact, simultaneously clap as a class, or put their hands on their heads or desks to reclaim attention and prompt students to participate in oncoming activities.
Practicing meditation regularly or when you need a boost of focus can be a gainful activity. Meditation requires deep breaths, a still body and specific visualizations. Depending on what you are aiming to focus on, visualizing a completed project and the feelings associated with its completion can be useful focus tools. Other visualizations include a peaceful place or state. For example, envision your different body parts relaxing as you physically release tension. Meditation can focus your concentration for oncoming activities as well as teach you control over your thoughts and body for better regular focus.
Reviewing schedules, lists, calendars or written plans is a useful focus activity that can be done solo or in groups. Reviewing these materials can help you focus or keep track of the hour or the entire year's activities, goals and agendas. This focus activity can also include noting new short-term goals and altering long-term aims.
Classrooms and other groups that join together in chants, reading or repeating words can come to focus together. This activity supports focused interaction that claims attention without demanding it abruptly. Group reading, repeating and chanting can be especially enjoyable for young groups or classrooms, yet are beneficial for a range of ages and group types.