If a student’s mouth is turned down and their eyes are dull, they are likely unhappy to be in class just then. If a student appears alert and is smiling or half smiling, they are most likely responding well to the class discussion and feel engaged. If a student has an indifferent expression on their face, they may be bored and simply biding time until you let the class leave for the day.
You can help perk up your student by moving around the classroom. They will have to sit up to keep their eyes on you, which should be enough movement to re-engage them.
If a majority of the class appears disengaged or bored, consider stopping your lecture and moving to a group project or open class discussion.
For example, in some Asian cultures, looking at a teacher in the eye may indicate that a student is challenging their authority. Autistic students, and those with ADHD, typically fidget and avoid eye contact when they are focusing. They may also stare into space if they’re focusing on what they hear. None of this is cause for concern.
These are all non-verbal cues that the student is becoming increasingly angry and potentially violent. Also, if you see a student’s hands linger or hover near their waistband or inside their clothing, you should assume that they may have a weapon and take appropriate precautions. [7] X Research source
Students are especially prone to removing clothes and jewelry just before physical fighting.
The thousand-yard stare is one in which the person is unfocused, not seeing anything directly in front of them. It’s as if they’re looking through everything and everyone. The target stare is one in which the student narrows their eyes and stares directly at you or another student, often in the chin area. [9] X Research source
Folded arms indicate the student is closed off and not receptive to the discussion. Open arms indicate interest, openness, and that student is feeling connected and included.
For instance, you might say, “Mr. and Mrs. Leiding, I’ve noticed that Samantha is having a difficult time paying attention in class lately. Is there anything I should be aware of that’s going on at home that may be contributing to her lack of focus?” Remember to be respectful of the family’s privacy and note that they may feel uncomfortable sharing personal details with you.
Avoiding eye contact may also indicate that the child did something that they feel badly about, such as knocking something over or wetting their pants. If your child student won’t make eye contact, stay positive and reassure them. You might say, “I know that you are feeling bad, and I want you to know that everything is okay. I care about you and want to talk about what’s bothering you. ”
Don’t force a child to uncross their arms or approach something that makes them apprehensive. Instead, tell them “Take your time. You’re safe and I’m here with you,” to encourage them to warm up to a person or object.
“Bobby, can you please ask me a question about this? It would be very helpful if you did so that we can make sure that everyone understands what we’re talking about. Maria, I’d like you to think of another question about this lesson that we can answer after Bobby’s question. ”
Other signs include pointing to the crotch, crouching, standing in a corner, or even squatting. “Ravi, I think that you’re telling me that you need to go potty. Great job communicating what you need! Let’s try and go now and then we can come back and join the class. ”
