Verbal praise in front of the entire class is a simple and effective method for encouraging students to listen, especially for younger children. When you notice a child is following classroom procedures, such as raising a hand to speak, sitting cross-legged, or quietly listening to another student speak, make sure to take a quick moment to say, "Jonathan, I like how you're listening quietly, with your hands folded in your lap." Not only does this acknowledge the student's good behavior, it tells other children what the student it doing to receive that compliment. If you notice that a student who is usually disruptive is actively attempting to follow procedures, make sure to acknowledge him. A quick response to changed behavior lets the student know that he can act correctly, and will encourage continued good behaviors.
Many teachers choose a gesture or action that indicates the need for active listening. This could as simple as counting backwards from five or a handclap that the children are taught to repeat back when they hear it. "Give Me Five," is a popular expression in many elementary classrooms. When a teacher needs quiet, she will say, "Give me five," while putting her hand in the air. Each of the fingers stands for one direction: eyes on the speaker, mouth quiet, be still, hands free, listening. When the children see this, they are to stop what they're doing and put their hand in the air. The teacher does not move on until every child's hand is in the air and the five directions are being followed.
Get in the habit of giving random verbal pop quizzes after a lesson or discussion. These pop quizzes should consist of three or four quick, simple questions. The teacher will call on one student to answer, and if the student's answer is correct, he will receive a small prize, such as a piece of candy, small toy or a privilege such as being first in line for lunch. Teachers should not do this on a continuous basis, but should only offer the opportunity once or twice a week. Because students don't know whether the prize will be offered that day, they must be constantly listening. These quizzes encourage attention and give an excitement to lessons by offering potential prizes.
Many teachers designate a fun toy, such as a Koosh ball or stuffed animal, as the listening object. The classroom rule is that, at designated times, the only person who can talk is the person holding the speaking object. This visual and tactile cue helps students to remember not to speak out of turn, and holding the object grants an importance to whoever is speaking.